The care of mini orchids is similar to that of their older sisters. Like regular orchids, mini orchids need warmth, moisture, and semi-dry roots. They tend to be a little more sensitive than common orchids, and require less water and fertilizer. They also need to be repotted more often to stay healthy.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Planting and Repotting
Step 1. Choose a container that is slightly larger than the current one
Mini orchids have fast growing roots and one of the main reasons for periodic repotting is to give the roots as much space as they need. The new pot needs to be large enough to comfortably accommodate the roots, but not too large to avoid gaps while waiting for future growth.
Step 2. Look for a culture medium that has coarse particles
Moss and bark based soil is better than standard potting soil.
Step 3. Immerse the culture medium in water
For best results leave it for at least 24 hours so that it absorbs the water well.
Step 4. Cut the tips
Cut off a couple of inches above the knot. Cut those that have turned yellow or brown 2-3 cm below the knot.
Step 5. Carefully remove the mini orchid from the current container
Grab the base with one hand and hold the pot with the other. Push it to the side or turn it upside down, pressing or twisting the sides of the pot until it releases the root ball.
Step 6. Brush off the remaining soil from the roots
Over time, the culture medium crumbles and decomposing makes root rot more likely. The result is that you will have to remove as much of it from the roots as possible.
Step 7. Remove dead roots
They have a mushy appearance and are brown. The healthy ones, on the other hand, are white, green and quite firm.
Step 8. Place some new culture medium on the bottom of the pot
It doesn't take much, since the roots of mini orchids should occupy the majority of the container.
Step 9. Place the orchid in its new vase
Hold it so that the base of the lower leaf is an inch below the edge.
Step 10. Add the culture medium around the roots
Press gently to push it down and around the roots. Periodically, tap the pot against a flat surface to help level. Continue adding the medium until the entire root system is covered, leaving the plant starting with the lower leaf exposed.
Step 11. Check the strength of your transplanted orchid
Lift the plant off the stem. If the pot slips down you will need to add more culture medium.
Step 12. Do not water a freshly repotted plant for at least 10 days
Instead, place it in a warm area and mist it daily with a little water. In the evening the leaves must be dry.
Step 13. Change vase every two years
The mini orchids must also be repotted every year, but some can withstand even three years in the same container, without suffering damage. If the growing medium starts to smell or the roots appear constricted, it's time to repot.
Method 2 of 2: Daily Care
Step 1. Water the mini orchids by placing an ice cube in the vase every week
In general, orchids have roots that are sensitive and prone to rot when immersed in too much water. By using an ice cube, the amount of water will gradually penetrate into the medium, reducing the risk of excess moisture. Common orchids also need three cubes, but small varieties only need one.
Step 2. Check if the culture medium is dry every 2-3 days
Under ideal conditions, the cube provides enough water for one week. If it is very hot or the weather is dry, you will need to add some water in the middle of the week. Let the medium dry partially but add water when it feels dry 5 centimeters below the surface.
Step 3. Leave the orchid in the direct sun
Place it on an east-facing windowsill or block out direct light using translucent film or curtain if you put it elsewhere.
Step 4. If you cannot expose the orchid to sufficient lighting, provide it with additional artificial light
Fluorescent bulbs are the best alternative. Place the lights 6 to 12 inches above the orchids to avoid excess light.
Step 5. Keep an eye on the leaves
You can tell whether or not an orchid gets the right amount of light based on the appearance of the leaves. Too little light will produce dark green leaves and no flowers. Too much light will cause them to turn yellow or red. Some leaves may develop brown "sunburn" spots.
Step 6. Maintain a temperature between 18 and 29 ° C
Mini orchids want humid heat. For best results, keep the temperature high during the day and lower it by about 8 ° C at night. Never let it go below 13 ° C.
Step 7. Do not place the flower in the middle of a draft
Avoid corners next to open and vent windows.
Step 8. Periodically mist the leaves of your mini orchids
They love the wet and nebulizing the plant every 2-3 days serves to replicate this condition. If that doesn't work, use a humidifier in the room during the day.
Step 9. Fertilize once a month
Use a balanced fertilizer to be diluted in water up to half the recommended dose. If that doesn't seem to help, you can try a high-nitrogen fertilizer, especially if you're using a bark-based growing medium.
