Some orchids bloom annually, while others bloom continuously throughout the year. Providing all the proper environmental conditions (light, temperature, water, fertilizer, etc.) will enable the orchid to continue blooming year after year.
Learn more about proper orchid care in this article: Growing Orchids Indoors.
Reasons Why Orchids Don't Bloom
There are several factors that may lead to an orchid failing to rebloom.
Insufficient Light
- One of the primary reasons why orchids do not rebloom.
- When indoors, the best location is usually a window with bright, indirect light.
- If leaves are dark green, they are not receiving enough light, and as a result, they are less likely to bloom well. Instead, orchids should have leaves that are a medium, grassy-green color.
- Move plants to a brighter location or provide supplemental light.
Improper Fertilization
- Orchids that have not been adequately fertilized will not flower well.
- During the active growing period, during the spring and summer months, fertilize weakly weekly using a balanced fertilizer.
Improper Day Length
- Some species of orchids require short-day or long-day conditions. Research your species to determine if they require a specific day length.
- Ensure they are growing in locations where the duration of exposure to light (sunlight or artificial light) is suitable for the species.
No Temperature Drop
- Most species require several weeks of a 10-15 degree drop in nighttime temperature, ideally down to 55-65°F.
- Many also rely on seasonal variations in temperature (warm summers, cool winters) to bloom. Ensure that overall temperatures are cooler for part of the year to trigger flowering. This phenomenon occurs naturally in the fall, which is why many species bloom during the winter months.