Caring for orchids during the winter months involves several key steps to ensure their health and vitality. Here are five short bullet points to guide you:
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Temperature Management: Keep orchids in a warm area with stable temperatures, ideally between 60-70\u00b0F (15-21\u00b0C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Avoid placing them near cold drafts or heating vents.
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Reduced Watering: Water less frequently in winter, allowing the potting medium to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in colder months.
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Humidity Control: Maintain adequate humidity levels, around 40-60%. You can use a humidifier or place the orchid pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles to increase surrounding moisture.
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Limited Fertilizing: Reduce fertilizing frequency. During winter, orchids often go into a dormant phase and require less feeding. Once a month with a balanced, diluted orchid fertilizer is typically sufficient.
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Adequate Lighting: Ensure orchids receive enough light, as winter days are shorter and darker. East or south-facing windows are ideal. If natural light is insufficient, consider using grow lights.
