I love orchids. They are great gifts to give or get -- and I've become pretty good at getting Phalaenopsis Orchids to rebloom! Here's how:
How to Rebloom Phalaenopsis Orchids in Your Window:
1. Remember the iconic Marilyn Monroe photo where her skirt blows up? Well, orchids like a breeze from below too! The windows at Inside Edition are perfect for reblooming, thanks to the air vents below the plants.
2. Orchids generally don't like direct sun. These south-facing windows are polarized so the plants aren't getting burned.
3. Water orchids once a week, allowing them to drain thoroughly. I just put 'em in a sink and let the water drain out. Don't fall for the 3 ice cube trick. Would you like to be subjected to ice cold water?!
4. Clip spent blossoms on the stem just above a node that looks like it might have potential to sprout a stem. You may get lucky!
5. Alternatively, new stems can form from the base like this one. I normally repot the orchid to cover the tendrils. Just use tree bark if you need more "soil" material. Plant stores will have it.
6. Train a new stem using plant clips and a curved wire.
Enjoy! They may not look quite as good as new ones at the the florist, but you'll save a bundle -and- feel incredibly satisfied!