Can I Put My Orchid Plant Outside?

This post is a part of a larger series on how to care for an orchid.

When it comes to orchid care, there are a lot of common misconceptions. One of the most common is whether or not an orchid can be put outside. Today, we’re going to clear up the confusion and help you decide what’s best for your plant.

Can I Put My Orchid Plant Outside?

The short answer is…it depends. To give you a better understanding, let’s break it down by taking a closer look at the main types of orchids: epiphytes and terrestrial.

Epiphytic Orchids

Epiphytic orchids are the most common type of orchid. They grow naturally in trees and get their nutrients from the air, water, and debris that collects around them. If you live in an area with high humidity, you can put your epiphytic orchid outside without any problems. However, if you live in a dry climate, it’s best to keep your plant indoors.

Terrestrial Orchids

Terrestrial orchids are native to humid rainforests. They grow in the ground and get their nutrients from the soil. If you live in a humid climate, you can put your terrestrial orchid outside. However, if you live in a dry climate, it’s best to keep your plant indoors.

So, what’s the verdict?

If you live in a humid climate, you can put your orchid plant outside without any problems. However, if you live in a dry climate, it’s best to keep your plant indoors. This will help ensure that your plant gets the nutrients it needs and doesn’t experience any distress.

10 Related FAQs

1) Will my orchid bloom if I put it outside?

A: The answer to this question depends on the type of orchid you have. If you have an epiphytic orchid, it’s likely that your plant will bloom if you put it outside. However, if you have a terrestrial orchid, it’s unlikely that your plant will bloom if you put it outside.

2) How often should I water my orchid when it’s outdoors?

A: Watering frequency for orchids varies depending on the type of orchid, the weather, and the potting mix. Generally speaking, you should water your orchid once a week when it’s outdoors.

3) Is there anything I need to do to prepare my orchid for the outdoors?

A: If you’re putting your orchid outdoors for the first time, there are a few things you should do to prepare it. First, acclimate your plant by slowly increasing its exposure to sunlight over the course of a week. Second, check your plant for pests and diseases and treat accordingly. Third, repot your orchid into a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot.

4) What is the best location for my orchid plant outdoors?

A: The best location for your orchid plant outdoors will vary depending on the type of orchid you have. If you have an epiphytic orchid, it should be placed in an area with dappled sunlight. If you have a terrestrial orchid, it should be placed in an area with full sun.

5) What temperature range is best for my orchid plant outdoors?

A: The ideal temperature range for orchids is between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, your orchid will likely still do well outside if the temperature falls outside of this range.

6) What type of potting mix should I use for my orchid when it’s outdoors?

A: The type of potting mix you should use for your orchid when it’s outdoors depends on the type of orchid you have. If you have an epiphytic orchid, you should use a bark-based potting mix. If you have a terrestrial orchid, you should use a soil-based potting mix.

7) Should I fertilize my orchid when it’s outdoors?

A: Fertilizing your orchid when it’s outdoors is not necessary. However, if you want to fertilize your plant, you should only use a half-strength fertilizer once a month.

8) What are the benefits of putting my orchid outdoors?

A: There are several benefits to putting your orchid outdoors. First, exposure to sunlight will help your plant bloom. Second, increased airflow will help reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Third, being outdoors will help your plant receive the nutrients it needs.

9) Are there any risks to putting my orchid outdoors?

A: There are a few risks to putting your orchid outdoors. First, if you live in a dry climate, your plant may experience distress from the lack of humidity. Second, if you live in an area with harsh winters, your plant may be damaged by the cold weather. Third, your plant may be more susceptible to pests and diseases when it’s outdoors.

10) How do I know if my orchid is happy being outdoors?

A: There are a few signs that indicate that your orchid is happy being outdoors. First, look for new growth on your plant. Second, check the leaves of your plant for signs of distress, such as yellowing or wilting. Third, take note of how often your plant is blooming. If you notice any of these signs, it’s likely that your orchid is happy being outdoors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether or not you can put your orchid plant outside depends on the type of orchid you have. If you have an epiphytic orchid, it’s likely that your plant will bloom if you put it outside. However, if you have a terrestrial orchid, it’s unlikely that your plant will bloom if you put it outside. There are a few things to keep in mind if you do decide to put your orchid plant outside, such as acclimating your plant to the outdoors slowly, checking for pests and diseases, and using a pot with drainage holes. Thanks for reading!