Growing orchids in the UK
Orchids have a reputation for being difficult, which isn't really fair. Most species do well in British homes because our indoor temperatures sit in the range they actually want: 18-22°C, fairly stable, no extreme heat. The thing to understand is that orchids aren't like your other houseplants. They're epiphytes, which means they grow on tree branches in the wild, not in soil. That's why they come in bark, not compost, and why their roots look so different.
We have 21 orchid care guides covering every variety we sell, from the Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid) that practically looks after itself to the Vanda, which needs more effort but rewards it.
What makes orchids different
Orchids need an open, bark-based medium so air can reach their roots. Those thick roots contain chlorophyll and actually photosynthesise, which is why so many orchids come in clear pots. If the roots are sitting in water, they rot. That's the number one way people lose orchids: too much water, not enough airflow.
The other thing worth knowing is that many orchids need a temperature drop to trigger flowering. This actually works in our favour in the UK. A Cymbidium, for example, does well outside in a sheltered spot over summer, then when you bring it in around October the cooler-to-warmer shift kicks off the flower spikes.
Orchid care in UK homes
Indirect light from an east- or west-facing window suits most popular orchids, including Phalaenopsis and Cambrias. The main problem is humidity. Central heating can pull indoor humidity down to 20-30%, and orchids want 50-70%. Grouping plants together helps. A pebble tray helps. Putting them in the bathroom or kitchen where there's naturally more moisture in the air helps most of all.
From November to February, most orchids slow right down. Water less, stop feeding, and wait for new growth in spring. South-facing sills that are too bright in summer become good spots in winter when the sun is lower.
Where to start
If you haven't grown orchids before, start with a Phalaenopsis. They're forgiving, they flower for months, and they rebloom without much fuss. Our easy-care orchids guide covers the best varieties for beginners and what to expect in the first year. Once you're comfortable with those, the other species in our guides are worth exploring.
Care guides in this category
- Butterfly Orchid — pet safe, difficulty 3/5
- Cambria Orchid — pet safe, difficulty 3/5
- Cymbidium Orchid — Boat Orchid, pet safe, difficulty 3/5
- Dancing Ladies Orchid — pet safe, difficulty 2/5
- Phalaenopsis Orchid — Moth Orchid, pet safe, difficulty 2/5
- Spider Orchid — pet safe, difficulty 2/5