How Much Light for Orchids

[SharonCC]

I’ve been doing a lot of reading on providing the proper light for Orchids. I know an East window, or filtered Southern exposure should be fine. My southern window has a privacy film, because of the neighbour’s travel trailer parked right next to my window. I have both Orchids on Dining Room table which is five to six feet from the window with the privacy film. Do you think that is going to work? I also assume that cloudy days will still allow sufficient light?

[estación seca]

Different orchids have different light requirements. Your Phalaenopsis orchids have relatively low light requirements. They do well with 1,000 foot candles or 11,000 lux of light.

With natural light, both intensity and duration are important. Your summers have long days, but your winter days may not be long enough to flower some orchids.

I suggest getting an inexpensive light meter to measure the intensity at your plants. It may be adequate but it may not be.

[SharonCC]

Thanks. I will definitely pick up a light meter. I’ve moved them to the eastern window, and leaves are standing upward much more. They’re happier there, obviously…..