How to save an orchid after returning from vacation? Here’s how to revive your faded plant!

Have you just returned from your summer vacation to find that your orchid is in real agony? What to do? Is it possible to get her back? How do I know if she’s dead? Given that orchids are particularly sensitive and capricious plants, long periods without watering can be fatal to them. There are, however, some tips and tricks that could be quite useful in bringing this sophisticated and gentle plant back to life. Our gardening experts explain how to save an orchid after a long absence. Follow us.

How do you know if an orchid is dead?

Indeed, the maintenance of an orchid is not so complicated, especially when you master its watering and its location. But, no matter how much care you give it, your longer absence, especially the lack of water intake, affects it negatively. Before taking any action, it is important to first check whether your orchid is still alive and whether it can really be saved. First, examine the crown of the plant, i.e. the part that joins the leaves to the base. If the leaves turn yellow, brown or fall off, your orchid is in real agony. Second, if the roots have all turned brown or dried out or the main stem has lost its pretty green color, your plant has very little chance of surviving.

However, it is crucial to note that orchids are full of surprises. So don’t be discouraged and give it the necessary care to get it going again. Find out the answers in the following paragraphs.

How to save an orchid after your vacation?

When you return from vacation, you notice that your orchid is dying and it has dried up due to lack of watering. Do not panic! If she does not show any of the aforementioned signs, there is still hope. The first thing to do is to find the source of the problem. This can manifest itself at the level of the roots or the leaves. As for the roots, some may be soft, brown or show rot. Cut them using a well-sharpened and disinfected pruner. The leaves of the plant would likely be yellow and withered, or even blackened, which is usually due to lack of watering. Next, soak your orchid in water for 15 to 20 minutes to hydrate it well.

To save the orchid after your summer vacation and give it a real boost, fertilization is also a good idea. However, some experts warn about the use of fertilizer when the plant is very fragile, since this can further damage the roots. However, it is possible to perform this essential step when the plant has recovered a little. In this context, it is better to use natural orchid fertilizer and avoid harmful chemicals.

How to water an orchid when you are away to avoid saving it later?

There are many methods for watering plants while you are away, but there is one that is most suitable for the orchid. These include watering gel which is available in garden centers and which costs about 5 euros per bag. You can actually make it yourself, it’s quick and easy, and it can gradually irrigate the plant for up to 30 days. To use it, nothing could be simpler. Before leaving, hydrate your plant as usual and then drop a gel on the substrate. It will begin to water the plant little by little and nourish the orchid depending on the heat.

How to save and orchid and make it bloom again?

You have managed to get your orchid to start again, but it is however deprived of flowers? How do I get it to bloom again? First, prune by cutting the stems to the nearest bud. This cut will encourage the production of another flower stalk in the months that follow. Then proceed to watering the orchid properly while avoiding excess water without letting the plant sit in water. Then, place the plant in a warm and bright place, but away from direct light. The ideal location would be near an east or west facing window. The orchid also appreciates humidity and it is possible to put it on a tray of damp pebbles.