BellaOnline Forums Home and Garden Orchids HELP!! New owner of a orchid

Hi, I just signed up for this blog site because I need IMMEDIATE assistance regarding my new Phalaenopsis Orchid. My boyfriend got it for me on Valentines Day at Fred Meyer and no one there has a clue how to take care of it. I'm honestly a little scared by it. I don't have a green thumb, lets just say. So please someone tell me what to do. I live in the portland area so this time of year there is little sunlight and heat.

Water once a week in the sink and let the water drain out of the bottom. Your orchid should keep on flowering for about 2-3 months. Check out the "Phalaenopsis" section of the Orchids website -- there is all kinds of information ther. Phals need just a little light to be happy.

thanks, what does it mean if the leaves are starting to turn red?

Too much sun I suspect! Put it in a spot that African violets do well. Is it getting direct sunlight? The plant really just needs to be in a well lit room. Try hanging some lace curtains if it is in a window that the sun shines through. Don't let it dry out completely - it will need more frequent watering in the summer months. When you water, don't let the water dribble down and collect at the base of the leaves - it will cause rot to set in.

It for sure don't like direct sunlight. So you will need to change a place for you orchid, choose where is no direct sunlight!!