Can I Keep My Just Add Ice Orchid Outdoors in the Summer?
Posted by Just Add Ice Orchids... It's Just That Simple. on Tue, Aug 02, 2011
Our backyards have become our summer family rooms. We spend a significant amount of our time outdoors during the summer and like to have our favorite things on display where we can see them. Many Just Add Ice Orchid owners would like to display their Phalaenopsis orchids outdoors during the summer. If proper care is taken, you can take your Just Add Ice Orchid outdoors during the warm summer months; but leaving it outdoors is not a good idea.
Phalaenopsis orchids are more sensitive to light, water, temperature, humidity and sudden drafts than some orchid species and are best kept indoors. While they thrive beautifully indoors with little care, if you decide to display your Just Add Ice Orchids outdoors, you will need to keep a careful eye on the weather and take appropriate precautions to protect your plant from the elements. Experts recommend that you bring your Just Add Ice Orchid inside at night, during storms and during periods of extreme heat. You should inspect your Just Add Ice Orchid daily to evaluate its condition and watch for signs of plant disease or insect invasion.
Called moth orchids for their beautiful butterfly-like shape, Phalaenopsis orchids should be kept under a protective roof or awning to protect them from the harsh rays of the sun which can burn the plant’s leaves and petals. Your orchid should also be placed where it will not be exposed to sudden drafts or air-borne debris. Just Add Ice Orchids must also be sheltered from the rain which can over-saturate their planting medium and cause deadly root rot.
If you are interested in displaying orchids outdoors, Dendrobium orchids and Cattleya orchids are good choices for outdoor displays. Both tolerate partial shade and enjoy breezy air movement and natural rain.
Photo by: Alex Vranas