Four Quick Tips for Growing Young Orchids:

Young orchids need better care than more mature plants. If this is your first time growing one, then there are a few things you should know beforehand. This article will give you a few tips to help you grow one properly.

Light

More mature plants are in the flowering stage. Therefore, they require a higher level of light intensity than their younger counterparts. Immature orchids normally have light green leaves. If you notice the leaves are dark green instead, you should provide the plant with more lighting.

Scorching

As you just learned, providing the right amount of lighting is crucial to proper care. However, you need to make sure that there are no drops of water on the leaves. This will concentrate sunlight and result in the leaves becoming scorched. Young orchids are usually too delicate to survive this type of injury. This is less serious with older plants, as they can usually recover from this type of injury.

Fungus

While water can lead to scorched leaves, excess water in the pot can also lead to problems. One of the main concerns with excess water is damage to the roots. However, it also provides the ideal environment for the growth of fungus. Most orchids can survive a small amount of fungus, but the younger ones aren't usually strong enough. If you spot black or white structures that look like a spider web, there is likely fungus present. Your plant will probably die unless you get rid of the problem using fungicide.

Pot

One of the final things to consider when growing young orchids is the type of pot you're using. When the plant produces growth that extends over the edge of the pot, you know it's time for you to move it to a new one. However, you should avoid doing this too early because the roots may still be developing. Also, you shouldn't move the orchid to a pot that's too roomy because it won't grow as well.