Orchids are especially hard to imagine being absent from the winter windowsill. Right now, a wide variety of different species and cultivars are available, enriching the scenes that are dominated year-round by the colorful Phalaenopsis hybrids.

During the winter months, especially once the Christmas decorations are taken down, flowers are highly welcome as mood boosters against the dreary winter weather. The most effective way for flower lovers to combat winter blues is through the vibrant colors and shapes of tropical plants. Orchids are the epitome of such plant worlds. The good news is that the selection offers numerous, very different species and genera, which not only can be purchased at affordable prices but are also easy to care for. Even the noble lady's slippers and Cattleya hybrids don’t require expert knowledge.

What all orchids have in common is that they cannot tolerate waterlogged roots. A weekly moistening of the planting substrate is enough for the common species. If you care for the relatively thirsty Cymbidium orchids, stronger watering is required. However, these plants also despise foot baths. Once the roots are damaged by rot, it often leads to the loss of the plant. But this doesn’t have to happen. Special orchid pots, for example, hold the inner pot a little above the bottom of the container, minimizing the risk of waterlogging. Always check for excess water after watering to be sure.

Just as orchids dislike excessive water at their roots, they do enjoy high humidity. Especially when placed above a heater, misting the leaves (+ not the flowers, please!) ensures healthy growth. In terms of light conditions and fertilizer needs, these exotic beauties are undemanding. North and east windows provide enough light for most plants; Cattleya or Cymbidium are the only species that require more light, especially in winter. Fertilizing every two weeks with half the usual dose of a standard liquid fertilizer is sufficient. For peace of mind, you can use a specialized orchid fertilizer.

The often fleshy roots of orchids thrive best in a rather coarse, special orchid substrate. This ensures that enough air reaches the plants. Repotting is only necessary when the plant roots threaten to outgrow the pot. The aerial roots, which often crawl over the edge of the pot, should not be cut off and can grow as they wish for now. Only when repotting should they be placed in the pot, and the plants will form new roots over time.

To ensure your orchid treasures bloom again in the coming season, you should be somewhat familiar with their care. Some species require a little special treatment, but it doesn’t need a greenhouse or expert knowledge. The most important tips are listed next to the pictures.

This year, interior designers are banishing winter with the lightness of design: sky and water colors, such as light green and turquoise, make you feel as cheerful as a vacation on a dream beach!

Give your plants a tropical, joyful setting. Species with yellow-green foliage or green-yellow flowers, such as corresponding varieties of the Venus slipper ( Paphiopedilum ), as well as Cattleya or Phalaenopsis, are ideal for this.