Besides, there’s actually a few really good reasons why the bathroom is the ideal spot to grow orchids. And here’s a few more tips to help you on your way.
There’s an old saying that goes like this…”An orchid expert is one who has killed a thousand orchids.”
So I just bought a couple more orchids from Home Depot at $5 each. I certainly don’t intend to kill them…..but you know….it could happen. Meanwhile, I get to enjoy them while in bloom. Don’t they seem to stay in bloom forever?
You’ll easily pay $10 for each bloom corsage at a florist (and all they do is stick a pin on the back and add glitter….tacky!)
Orchids are known for their beautiful and delicate flowers that add an exotic elegance to any space. With their tropical origins, orchids thrive in warm, humid environments which makes bathrooms an ideal location for growing these lovely plants. But do orchids really do well in bathrooms? Let’s take a closer look.
Why Bathrooms Work for Orchids
There are a few key reasons why bathrooms offer prime conditions for growing healthy orchids
Humidity
Orchids prefer consistent humidity between 40-80%. Bathrooms naturally provide higher humidity levels than other areas of the home due to regular showering and bathing. The steam generated helps keep orchid leaves moist and happy.
Warmth
Orchids grow best in warm temperatures between 65-85° F. Bathrooms tend to be warmer than the rest of the house. The heat from showers and baths gives orchids a comfortable environment.
Bright Indirect Light
Orchids need bright but indirect sunlight to thrive Bathroom windows and skylights often provide an ample amount of ambient natural light perfect for orchids
Air Circulation
Good air flow is essential for orchid health to prevent disease and pests. Bathroom fans and windows allow for air movement that orchids need.
Convenience
Bathrooms provide easy care and maintenance for orchids. With frequent bathroom visits, it’s simple to spot any issues promptly like pests or drooping leaves that need attention.
Best Placement for Orchids in Bathrooms
When situating orchids in the bathroom, here are some prime spots to take advantage of the ideal growing conditions:
- Near a window where bright indirect light is available
- On a bathroom counter or wall shelving away from direct water splashing
- Near bathroom fans or vents for good air circulation
- Above the toilet tank or on the back of the toilet for humidity from regular flushing
- Inside a bathroom cabinet with the doors left open for warmth and humidity
- Hanging from the shower curtain rod or corner shower caddies
Avoid placing orchids directly in the shower stream or super close to radiators where they’ll get too wet or hot.
Caring for Bathroom Orchids
While bathrooms offer natural advantages for orchids, you still need to provide proper care to keep them looking their best:
- Water 1-2 times per week, allowing pots to fully drain. Never let orchids sit in water.
- Use room temperature filtered or distilled water to prevent mineral buildup.
- Provide a weak liquid fertilizer weekly.
- Prune back dead leaves and flower stems.
- Repot every 2-3 years in an orchid potting mix.
- Monitor for pests like spider mites or scale.
- Clean leaves periodically with dilute soap and water.
- Give 12-14 hours of indirect sunlight daily by moving plants as needed.
- Keep temperatures 65-80°F and humidity 40-60% year-round.
- Avoid dry forced air from heating vents blowing directly on the orchids.
With proper placement and care, bathrooms can provide the warm, humid, and bright environment orchids love. Taking advantage of the convenient bathroom conditions makes growing these stunning blooms much simpler. Pay attention to your orchid’s needs and it will reward you with exotic flowers and graceful foliage.
Common Questions About Growing Orchids in Bathrooms
Can orchids tolerate steam from showers?
Orchids can tolerate brief exposure to shower steam. However, leaves that remain continuously wet from direct overhead moisture are more prone to fungal and bacterial diseases.
Should I mist my bathroom orchids?
Misting orchids can do more harm than good. The water droplets magnify light and burn leaves. Keep humidity stable instead with pebble trays or humidifiers.
How often should I fertilize bathroom orchids?
Apply a diluted liquid orchid fertilizer weekly. Choose a low nitrogen formula since bathrooms provide ample humidity. Reduce feeding during winter months.
What if my bathroom has no windows?
You can grow orchids in a windowless bathroom with the help of a grow light. Place the orchid where it will receive 12-14 hours of bright indirect light daily from the grow bulb.
With the right care and conditions, your bathroom can become an orchid oasis! Following these simple tips will have your exotic blooms thriving.
Why grow orchids in your bathroom?
- Orchids prefer humidity to be between 50-70% so this makes the bathroom, a place where hopefully lots of people are taking hot showers and baths an ideal spot. They love the dampness!
- Many houseplants don’t survive the winter ~ they simply don’t like the dry interior air. Your bathroom is still your best bet for humidity. Sigh. I just killed my mandavilla. Sad day!
- There’s a reason greenhouses have so many fans. Air circulation. Orchids love ventilation. Good thing your bathroom has…..guess what….a fan! No circulation = fungus + rot.
- Ventilation should be provided for as all orchids do require fresh air from time to time. During the spring, summer and fall, hopefully you have a window to open in your bathroom. But if not, that is what the fan is for.
Top Orchid Growing Tips….
- When in doubt, go drought
- Whatever you do, do it before noon
- Misting can result in more problems than benefits
- Water once a week, more in summer and less in winter
- Use temperate tap water – not from rock salt water softener – flush monthly
- Fertilize weakly, weekly
- If leaf is warm to the touch, it has too much light
- Sun changes seasonally, arrange your plants accordingly
- Good air movement and light are just as important as water and fertilizer
Water More When…There is more light There is more circulation The plants have thinner leaves The temperatures are higher The humidity is lower The plant is mounted on a slab The plant is growing in a basket The plant is in a small pot (dries faster) The plant is in a clay pot (porous) |
Water Less When…There is less light There is less air circulation The plants have thicker leaves The temperatures are lower The humidity is higher The plant is in a plastic pot The plant is in a large pot (dries slower) |