Winter Orchid Care — Cold Weather Protection Guide

Orchids require different winter temperatures depending on their type. Understand the temperature classification of your orchids and provide proper winter care.

Care by Temperature Type

Warm-Growing (Phalaenopsis, Vanda, etc.)

• Strictly maintain a minimum of 15°C or above. These are cold-sensitive and may die if chilled
• A warm, indoor window location is ideal. Move away from windows at night

Intermediate (Cattleya, etc.)

• Maintain a minimum of 10°C or above
• Slightly lower winter temperatures are acceptable, but frost is strictly prohibited

Cool-Growing (Cymbidium, etc.)

• Can tolerate temperatures down to about 5°C
• Exposure to winter cold actually promotes flower bud formation

Winter Placement

• A south-facing window is ideal. Provide plenty of sunlight
• However, the area right next to windows gets cold at night, so don't place plants between curtains and the window
• Avoid locations where air conditioner warm air blows directly, as it causes dryness

Adjusting Watering

• In winter, roots absorb less water, so reduce watering
• Water only after the pot has completely dried out. The contrast between wet and dry periods is important
• Water in the morning to prevent roots from staying wet overnight

Cold Treatment for Flower Bud Formation

• Dendrobium develops flower buds when exposed to 5--10°C for 4--6 weeks in autumn to winter
• During this cold treatment, nearly stop watering and keep the plant on the dry side
• Skipping cold treatment may result in no flowers, making winter cold important for orchids

Find Orchid Breeders on BreederDirect

On BreederDirect, you can learn overwintering methods for specific orchid types directly from specialist breeders. If you want to grow beautiful flowers, find your favorite orchid on BreederDirect.