Common orchid 'mistake' to avoid or you could end up 'killing' houseplant

Orchids might be seen as fussy , but with the right attention, they can bloom beautifully indoors.

The plant experts at BabyBio have pinpointed a lack of sunlight as one of the key "mistakes" that could lead to an orchid's demise. They said: "Like all plants, sunlight is essential to allow your orchid to convert light into energy, and in turn produce an orchid's beautiful blooms.

"Most orchids thrive in bright but indirect sunlight, so east or west-facing window sills are ideal for most of the year." It's crucial not to expose these delicate plants to direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.

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The specialists advised: "To prevent over or under-watering, always check the dampness of the compost first to ensure it needs a drink. Ideally, you'll want to water it when the potting mix is almost dry, but not completely dry."

"You can also mist your orchid lightly to increase humidity, but be careful you don't soak the leaves or leave them damp as this can lead to mould, fungus, and leaf rot."

Beyond watering, feeding is another area where orchid carers often slip up, reports . The experts say orchids are hungry for a special blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to grow at their best.

For those looking to nourish their orchids, feeds like Baby Bio's Orchid Food are available at centres and online. The pros advised: "Orchids should be repotted every year so that they can continue to bloom and flourish, however, many leave them in the same pot for years.

"If roots appear tight and tangled or you spot white roots growing out of the container, it may be time to repot. Another sign your orchid might need repotting is if its roots are beginning to rot, or appear soft and brown, as this could be a sign that your compost is no longer draining effectively."

They also stressed the importance of using clean, sharp scissors when repotting, as orchids are susceptible to disease and sterilised tools are crucial. Furthermore, selecting the correct compost is vital for the orchid's new home because it naturally grows on rough bark, not soil, which is a common mistake.

The right compost will mimic the plant's natural habitat and promote root aeration.