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

How do you know if an orchid is dead?

In fact, maintaining an orchid is not that complicated, especially when you master its watering and location. But, no matter how much you worry, your longer absence, especially lack of water intake, negatively affects. Before taking any action, it’s important to check if your orchid is still alive and if it can really be saved. First, examine the crown of the plant, which is the part that joins the leaves to the base. If the leaves turn yellow, brown, or droop, your orchid is in agony. Secondly, if the roots have all turned brown or dry, or the main stem has lost its beautiful 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 take the necessary care to get it going. Decryption in the following paragraphs.

How to save an orchid after the holidays?

When you return from vacation, you find that your orchid is dying and is dry due to lack of watering. Don’t panic! If it doesn’t show any of the above signs, there’s still hope. The first trick to do is to find the source of the problem. This can show up in the roots or leaves. As for the roots, some may be soft, brown, or rotted. Cut them using a sharp, disinfected pruning shear. The leaves of the plant would likely be yellow and wilted, or even blackened, which is usually due to a lack of watering. Then, soak the orchid in water for 15 to 20 minutes to keep it hydrated.

To save the orchid after the summer holidays and give it a real boost, fertilization is also in order. However, some experts warn against using fertilizers when the plant is very fragile, as it can further damage the roots. However, you can practice this essential step when the plant has recovered a bit. In this context, it is best to use a natural orchid fertilizer and avoid harmful chemicals.

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

There are many methods for watering plants while you’re away, but there is one that is best suited for orchid. These include the irrigation gel which is available in garden centers and costs almost 5 euros per bag. You can actually do it yourself, it’s quick and easy, and it can gradually water the plant for up to 30 days. To learn how, click on the pink link above. To use it, nothing could be simpler. Before leaving, moisturize the plant as usual and then place a gel on the substrate. It will begin to sink little by little and feed the orchid according to the heat.

How to make an orchid bloom again?

Have you managed to get your orchid back on track, but it’s still without flowers? How do you proceed to make it bloom again? First, perform a pruning by cutting the stems to the nearest button. This cut will encourage the production of another flower stem in the following months. Then proceed to water the correct orchid while avoiding excess water without letting the plant sit in the water. Then, place the plant in a warm, bright place, but away from direct light. The ideal location would be near an east or west-facing window. The orchid also appreciates moisture, and you can place it on a tray of wet pebbles.