How to Get an Orchid to Bloom Again

If your orchid has stopped flowering, don’t worry. Most Phalaenopsis orchids bloom again with the right care. The key is providing enough light, watering correctly, feeding regularly and allowing the plant to rest between flowering cycles.
1. Give Your Orchid More Light
The most common reason orchids fail to bloom is insufficient light.
Place your orchid in a bright room with indirect sunlight. East-facing windows are ideal, while strong afternoon sun should be filtered with a sheer curtain.
Healthy green leaves and steady growth usually indicate your orchid is receiving enough light.
2. Water Correctly
Overwatering is one of the biggest causes of poor orchid health.
Water your orchid only when the roots become silvery-grey and the growing medium feels almost dry. In most UK homes this is every 7–10 days, depending on the season.
Never leave the pot sitting in water, as this can damage the roots.
3. Feed During the Growing Season
Use a balanced orchid fertiliser every two to four weeks during spring and summer.
Healthy roots and leaves give the plant the energy it needs to produce a new flower spike.
Reduce feeding during winter when growth naturally slows.
4. Encourage a New Flower Spike
A slight drop in night-time temperature helps many Phalaenopsis orchids flower again.
Aim for a difference of around 5°C between day and night temperatures for several weeks in autumn. This natural change often encourages new flower spikes.
5. Trim the Flower Spike Correctly
If the flower spike is still green after the blooms fade, cut just above a healthy node.
If the spike has turned brown and dry, remove it completely at the base using clean, sterilised scissors.
Correct pruning encourages healthy new growth.
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common orchid care mistakes:
Keeping the orchid in a dark room.
Watering too frequently.
Leaving water around the roots.
Using ordinary houseplant compost.
Expecting continuous flowers all year.
Remember that orchids naturally rest between flowering cycles.
Expert Tip
At Bernard Roche, we recommend choosing healthy Phalaenopsis orchids and placing them in bright, indirect light from the day you bring them home. Consistent care is far more effective than frequent changes to watering or location.
If you’re looking for premium orchids that are selected for their beauty and longevity, explore our collections of Luxury Orchid Arrangements, White Orchids, Coloured Orchids and our exclusive Signature Designer Orchids.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for an orchid to bloom again?
Most Phalaenopsis orchids bloom again within 6–12 months when cared for correctly.
Should I cut the orchid stem after flowering?
Yes. If the stem is green, trim above a node. If it has turned brown, remove it completely.
Why are my orchid leaves healthy but there are no flowers?
This is usually caused by insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight.
Can I make my orchid bloom twice a year?
Some healthy orchids can flower twice a year, although once a year is more common in most homes.
Final Thoughts
Getting an orchid to bloom again doesn’t require complicated care. Bright indirect light, careful watering, regular feeding and a little patience are usually all that’s needed to encourage beautiful new flowers.
If you’re looking for expertly arranged luxury orchids in London, discover the Bernard Roche orchid collection and find the perfect arrangement for your home or office.