Orchids Need Light - But What Light Do They Need and How Much?

Like most plants orchids need light in order to survive, but how much light do they require and can these plants be successfully grown in the average home.

Well for the most part the answer is yes. Most of the common orchids we choose to grow in our homes are epiphytes and grow naturally on the trunks of trees or high up in the rainforest canopy. The intensity of the light the orchid plants receive is dependent on what position they naturally grow. Whichever position they choose to grow they will naturally receive light that is diffused by the rainforest canopy, so we should therefore try to mimic this and ensure that our plants are kept out of strong direct sunlight.

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When we are talking about providing the correct light conditions for our orchids we need to consider 2 elements; the intensity of the light and the duration of light.

Orchids need between 12 and 16 hours of light to keep them in active growth. If they receive more than 16 hours of light then this can affect flower formation. Also some species of orchid like the Dendrobrium will not flower if they do not experience a period without light.

The light intensity required by orchids is generally higher than our average house plant but this can vary between species. For most varieties of orchid an east facing window sill is ideal or perhaps a south facing one so long as shading is provided. For shading, one could make use of net curtains or some of the bamboo or grass style of blinds that are available. If you are not able to or don't wish to put shading up at your window you could just move your plant further into the room away from the window and sunlight. An orchid can suffer burn on an unshaded window sill but in the average home most will receive too little rather than too much light. A north facing window is really not suitable for your plants.

Be aware that light intensity changes throughout the year. In winter plants should be moved to the brightest spot in the house however do not move from a shaded spot to a bright spot directly. Allow the plant to slowly adjust to changes in light levels. Once again you move your plants to a bright window sill but provide some shade which you can slowly remove over a period of time.

Tip #1. White or light colored surroundings will help to reflect more light onto your plant

Tip #2. Keep your window glass clean and gently dust your orchid leaves so they receive maximum benefit from the light that is available

Tip #3. Turn your plants occasionally around to prevent uneven growth. But make sure you do not turn your plants when they are in bud.

Artificial Lighting

You could grow your orchids under artificial lights if your environment just does not have sufficient natural light or a combination of natural and artificial light.

Probably the most economical is to use florescent tubes but make sure you use those with warm white or cool white tubes. For a combination the light fixture could be placed in your window.

If the light available in your home is totally inadequate you can buy special grow lights from your local garden center.

When using artificial lighting stand your plants on a humidity tray and ensure that any florescent tubes are between 4 and 12" (10 - 30cm) away from your plants.

Conclusion

You will always be more successful if you are able to grow your orchids in lighting conditions that mimic their natural habitat.

The color of your plant leaves will help determine if it is receiving enough light. The leaves will be paler than normal if they are receiving too much light often with brown sunburn patches. The leaves will be darker than normal if they receive insufficient light which may also reduce the number of flowers your orchid will produce. Ideally you leaves should be a mid green color

Orchids Need Light - But What Light Do They Need and How Much?

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