In the wild, orchids are right at home in tropical rainforests or even tucked away in local meadows and woods. Believe it or not, many of the most popular varieties can actually thrive outdoors! If you have a sheltered balcony or patio, some of these beauties will be perfectly happy soaking up the fresh air.
The Best Orchid Varieties for Your Patio
Not every orchid is cut out for the outdoor life, but some actually prefer it. In fact, some varieties find the windowsill a bit too stuffy during the peak of summer. If you’re looking to move your plant babies outside, these types are great candidates:
- Cambria
- Lady’s Slipper Orchids (Cypripedium)
- Odontoglossum
- Pansy Orchids (Miltonia)
A Quick Note on Phalaenopsis
The Phalaenopsis, or Moth Orchid, is the one we all know and love, but it’s a bit pickier about going outside. You should only move your Moth Orchid outdoors if the temperature stays consistently above 60°F (15°C). If the thermometer dips too low during the evening or overnight, you’ll need to bring it back inside to keep it cozy.
The same goes for Dendrobium orchids. These guys are strictly fair-weather fans and should only be kept outdoors during those warm, peak summer days.
Finding the Perfect Spot on Your Balcony
When moving your orchids outside, picking the right location is everything. While orchids love bright, sunny spots, they can actually get a “sunburn” from harsh, direct midday sun. You’ll also want to protect them from heavy winds and drenching rain. A great tip is to place them on a plant stand near the house wall, ideally under an awning or umbrella.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast! If temperatures start dropping below the 55–60°F range, it’s time to move your orchids back indoors or into a temperature-controlled greenhouse.
How to Care for Outdoor Orchids
For the most part, caring for your orchids outside is pretty similar to your indoor routine. Regular watering and fertilizing are still the keys to seeing those gorgeous blooms and healthy green leaves.
To mimic the humidity they love, give their roots a misting with lukewarm, filtered water. On hot summer days, you might even need to mist them a few times a day. Just a heads-up: avoid misting when the sun is beating down directly on them. Water droplets on the leaves can act like tiny magnifying glasses, causing the sun to scorch the foliage.
