PlantLife Online

Answer

The bathroom is a great place for orchids so long as there is enough light. There are a few common reasons seemingly healthy orchid plants do not bloom, light, air temperature and nutrients. The lack of sufficient light is the most common reason for no blossoms, in most cases in the northern hemisphere a south facing window is best however rooms facing other directions with skylights also work. The changes in air temperature throughout a given day will also affect flowering a 10-20 degree difference from the day to night temperature is optimal for plant health. Almost all species of orchids will not do well when temperatures drop below 55 degrees F. There are many schools of thought regarding fertilization, some will tell you to fertilize every time you water with a 1/4 strength mix of houseplant fertilizer, others say its best to fertilize once a month with an orchid specific blend. I recommend using a 1:1:1 or 3:1;1 ratio orchid blend at the recommended rate. Unfortunately there is no real scientific data to back any of the numerous methods of fertilization. Allow the orchids planting media to mostly dry out before watering, you can check this by pushing your finger or a wooden pencil into the media without damaging the roots, if it comes out feeling damp wait to water. I hope these tips help.