ith summertime fast approaching, many orchid hobbyists may be wondering how to acclimate their plants to outdoor growing conditions. Orchids can thrive growing outdoors in the summertime. Plants grow better from extra light available, higher humidity, better air circulation, and a greater day-night temperature differential. However, there are some things to consider when transitioning plants to their new seasonal home.

Let there be light! You will need to acclimate your plants over the first several weeks so as to avoid sunburn. While mostly a cosmetic problem, when mixed with too much rain and cold temperatures, sunburn can lead to rot. When fear of the last frost has passed, move your plants to a sheltered, shaded area. A north, or eastern exposure is adequate to start with, just be sure that the plants aren’t getting more than a little morning light at first. You may wish to bring the plants in at night until nighttime temperatures are consistently above 55°. It is important to know how the angle of the sun hits your growing area because that will change as the season progresses. A good schedule for adjusting your plants to higher light levels is to start with a location where they will get no direct sunlight for the first week. The second week, place them where they will get only 30 minutes of direct sunlight, then each week, increase the time by 30 minutes until you can leave the higher light plants in direct sun for several hours a day. If you notice that plants are warm to the touch, they are probably getting too much sun. Also watch for leaves turning a reddish color as that can indicate enough or too much sun. Shade cloth can also be used to assist with the transition outside. Remember that plants such as Cattleyas and Vandas will require and tolerate much higher amounts of sunlight than Paphiopedilums and Phalaenopsis. Speaking of the latter two genera, you might want to think twice about summering them outside because the nature of their growth can lead to water collecting in the crown of the plant and potential problems with rot. Plants such as Miltonias and Masdevallias also will not tolerate high summer temperatures.

Watering outdoors is fast and easy! Plants can be hosed down in a few minutes, or Mother Nature can do the job for you with rainfall, an excellent source of water. Most orchids can be watered every few days, less if it has been raining. If it is hot and sunny, some plants may require watering more frequently, but watch out for those in shadier locations where they may not have time to dry off adequately before nightfall. If you use a hose to water, consider purchasing a screw on water filter, and monitor the temperature of the water. Humidity and Airflow should take care of themselves, particularly here in the northeast where we have relatively humid summers.

Watch out for pests and critters! Elevate plants off the ground to discourage any creepy crawlies from wandering into your plants. You may also want to place your plants inside heavier clay pots to keep them from being easily knocked over by four-legged furry friends.

Now sit back, relax and enjoy watching your plants enjoying the great outdoors!