Caring for mini orchids is the same as caring for ordinary orchid varieties. Like normal-sized orchids, mini-orchids thrive in warm, humid conditions with semi-dry roots. However, mini orchids tend to be more sensitive and require less water and fertilizer. Mini orchids-like their cousins from the regular variety-should also be transplanted into new pots every few years to maintain their health.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Planting in a Pot and Transferring It to a New Pot
Step 1. Choose a container slightly larger than the one you are currently using
Mini orchid roots grow quickly, and one of the main reasons why you should periodically transfer them to a new pot is to provide ample growing space for the roots. The new pot should be big enough to hold the roots, but not too big.
Step 2. Look for a growing medium that has large particles
Media with basic ingredients of moss and tree bark is the best material for standard planting media in pots.
Step 3. Soak the planting medium in water
For best results, soak the media for 24 hours to completely absorb the water.
Step 4. Prune the tapered stems
Remove the green stems about 2.5 cm above the top branch. Also cut the yellow or brown stems about 2.5 cm above the lowest branch.
Step 5. Carefully remove the mini orchid from the previous container
Gently lift the bottom of the orchid with one hand and hold the pot with the other. Turn or tilt the mini orchid, then slowly pull it out or turn the orchid sideways until the root clump is released from the pot.
Step 6. Clean the remaining planting media that is still stuck in the roots
The growing medium will disintegrate over time, and the aging and decaying media will cause the orchid roots to rot too. So, as much as possible you should get rid of all the remnants of old media.
Step 7. Remove dead roots
Dead roots will appear brown and wilted, while healthy roots will appear white or green and relatively hard.
Step 8. Sprinkle a little planting medium into the bottom of the new pot
You'll only need a small amount as the tiny orchid roots should fill up most of the space in the container.
Step 9. Put the mini orchid into a new pot
Hold the orchid upright with the bottom leaf about 1 cm below the lip of the pot.
Step 10. Carefully pour the planting medium around the mini orchid roots
Gently press the planting medium to compress it to the bottom and around the container. Pat the sides of the pot to help the growing medium fill the pot quickly. Continue to add planting medium until all the roots are covered and leaving only the part of the plant from the leaves up.
Step 11. Check the sturdiness of the mini orchid in the new pot
Lift the plant by holding the stem. If the plant lifts from the pot easily, then you will need to add more growing media to make the orchid firmly planted in the pot.
Step 12. During the first 10 days, do not water the orchids that have just been transferred to a new pot
Instead, leave the orchid in a warm place and spray it with a small amount of water every day. Orchid leaves should be kept dry at night.
Step 13. Transfer the mini orchid to a new pot every two years
Mini orchids should be transplanted into a new pot at least once a year, but some orchids can be moved every three years and the plant will not be damaged. If the planting media has started to smell or if the orchid roots seem cramped in the pot, it's time to move the orchid into a new pot.
Method 2 of 2: Daily Care
Step 1. “Water” the mini orchid by placing a standard size block of ice in the pot each week
In general, orchids have sensitive roots that are prone to rot if they are immersed in too much water for too long. “Watering” mini orchids with an ice cube will provide a measurable amount of water that will gradually melt and absorb into the growing medium, reducing the risk of too much water. While ordinary orchids need three blocks of ice, mini orchid varieties only need one.
Step 2. Check the dryness of the growing media every few days
Under ideal conditions, one ice cube will provide enough water for one week. However, in very hot or dry conditions, the orchid will need a little extra water in the middle of the week. Allow the planting medium to partially dry, but add water if it feels dry at 5 cm below the soil surface.
Step 3. Place the mini orchid in a bright place, but avoid direct sunlight
Place the flowers in an east window that gets only soft sunlight, or block some of the direct sunlight by placing the orchid in a shade or transparent screen on the south window.
Step 4. Add artificial lighting if the orchid lacks natural light
Fluorescent lamps or High Intensity Discharge / HID lamps (Xenon lamps) are the best alternatives. Place the lamp 15 to 30 cm from the top of the mini orchid to prevent exposure to too much light.
Step 5. Keep an eye on the orchid leaves
You can usually determine whether or not an orchid is receiving an adequate amount of light based on the appearance of its leaves. Too little light will result in dark green leaves and no flowers. Too much light will make the leaves yellow or red. Some leaves may even form brown dots from sunburn.
Step 6. Keep the room temperature between 18 to 29°C
Mini orchids thrive in warm and humid conditions. For best results, keep the temperature close to 29°C during the day and lower it to around 8°C at night. However, do not allow the temperature to drop below 13°C.
Step 7. Do not place the flower in a windy place
Do not place the orchid in front of an open window or air vent.
Step 8. Spray the mini orchid leaves periodically
Orchids like humid conditions and spraying them every day or two will create conditions that appear to be damp. If this doesn't work, turn on the humidifier in the room during the day.
Step 9. Fertilize once a month
Use a balanced fertilizer and mix it with water to dilute the concentration. If this fertilizer doesn't seem to be working on your orchids, try a high-nitrogen fertilizer, especially if you're using a bark-based growing medium.
