Orchids have been a favorite for indoor gardeners for ages, and it’s easy to see why! Their stunning, colorful blooms add a perfect pop of style to any living space. But did you know they can also thrive in your bedroom? Since many of us keep our sleeping areas a bit on the cooler side, certain exotic orchid varieties actually feel right at home there.
Orchids Help You Breathe Easier
You might have heard the old myth that you shouldn’t keep plants in the bedroom because they “steal” your oxygen while you sleep. Good news: that’s totally outdated! Modern studies show that indoor plants—orchids included—actually improve your indoor air quality. Not only do they help filter out pollutants, but they also naturally boost the humidity levels in the room, which is a total win for your skin and sinuses.
The Best Orchid Varieties for Your Bedroom
Because bedrooms are typically kept a little chillier, not every orchid is going to be happy there. However, there are a few “cool-loving” varieties that absolutely love an unheated or breezy room. Look for these:
- Various Lady Slipper (Paphiopedilum) varieties
- Dendrobium nobile hybrids
- Boat Orchids (Cymbidium)
- Odontoglossum (Cochlioda)
A Quick Note on Phalaenopsis
The most common orchid you’ll find at the store is the Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis), but it’s actually a bit picky about the bedroom. These beauties generally prefer warmer spots around 77°F (25°C) to really show off their blooms. However, once their blooming cycle is over, moving them to a cooler bedroom for a while is actually a great trick to trigger new bud growth!
Watch the Thermometer
Even though some orchids like it cool, they aren’t fans of the freezing cold. During the summer, try to keep the room above 60°F (15°C). In the winter months, make sure the temperature doesn’t dip below 50–55°F (10–13°C) to keep your plants healthy.
Bedroom Orchid Care 101
Just because they’re tucked away in the bedroom doesn’t mean they should be “out of sight, out of mind.” To keep them happy, make sure you water and fertilize them regularly. Also, be sure to snip off any dead or wilted leaves and stems to keep the plant’s energy focused on new growth.
A Heads-Up for Allergy Sufferers
If you struggle with seasonal allergies, you might want to think twice about keeping flowering plants in your sleeping area. While simply smelling an orchid usually won’t trigger an allergic reaction, the presence of pollen in a confined space can sometimes be a nuisance for those with high sensitivities. Better safe than sorry when it comes to getting your beauty sleep!
