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Orchids are among the most popular houseplants, but many people don’t know how to care for them. Although they are considered demanding, with proper care they can bloom repeatedly and last many years. If your orchid has lost its flowers, its leaves are turning yellow, or its roots are dying, it’s not necessary to throw it away immediately. There is a proven way to save it and bring it back to life. Professional growers use this method too – and we’ll now show it to you in detail.
Why do orchids lose their flowers and wither?
One of the most common reasons is incorrect watering, overwatering or, conversely, a lack of moisture. Drafts, direct sunlight, or insufficient air humidity also cause harm. An orchid can also react to repotting, a change of environment, or exhausted substrate.
Fortunately, even a seemingly dead plant can be regenerated with the right orchid care. Just give it a little time and use a proven trick.
First aid for an orchid step by step
1. Removing and inspecting the plant
Gently remove the orchid from the pot and carefully rinse the roots under running lukewarm water. Remove all old substrate. Using sterile scissors, cut off any rotting, dark, or dried roots. Also remove yellow or damaged leaves; only healthy parts should remain.
2. Garlic disinfectant bath
Crush one clove of garlic and pour 200 ml of hot water over it. After 10 minutes, strain the infusion and gently rinse the roots with this liquid. Garlic has antibacterial properties and protects against molds. Then let the plant dry for about 30 minutes.
3. Homemade greenhouse for regeneration
Prepare a plastic PET bottle. Cut it in half, turn the top part upside down and insert it into the bottom part. Pour a little water into the bottom – but so that it does not touch the roots. Place the orchid inside so that the roots hang above the water surface. This will create a humid microclimate that will support regrowth. Place the greenhouse in a bright spot, but not in direct sunlight.
4. Care in the following weeks
Regularly ventilate the mini greenhouse and mist gently with rainwater or boiled water every 2–3 days. After a few weeks, new roots should start to grow. Once they reach at least 5 cm in length, you can repot the orchid into fresh orchid substrate.
Tips for the longevity of your orchid
- Use transparent pots – roots need light.
- Water by soaking – into water for 10 minutes, then let drain.
- Ensure air humidity – ideally 50–70 %.
- Do not fertilize during regeneration – wait until the plant has strengthened.
- Grow without stress – stable temperature and no drafts.
Orchid without flowers? It’s not over yet!
If your orchid has stopped flowering, it doesn’t mean it’s the end. Quite the opposite – a resting period is natural and often precedes new growth. With the help of this method you will not only extend the plant’s life, but you may also see even more beautiful flowers than before.
Summary
Saving an orchid is not difficult if you know how. A garlic bath, a homemade greenhouse and a few weeks of patience can work wonders. Thanks to this method you can manage home cultivation of orchids without stress – and your plant will reward you with beautiful flowers and vitality.
Want more tips for successful cultivation? Follow our website and share this article with friends who also love orchids!
