Growing and Caring For Vanda Orchids

Plant Care

Vanda Orchids are unlike most other orchids only in that they prefer to grow without regular potting mix. They naturally grow on trees with large aerial roots to anchor themselves and absorb moisture. To replicate this, most individuals grow them in slatted wooden baskets or mount them so that the roots hang down freely.

Steady humidity, bright indirect light and regular watering are important. They prefer warm air and good air circulation and also appreciate to be fed well during their growing season. With the right care, they repay growers with some of the most superlative blooms in the world of orchids.

Light

Vandas adore intense light but not direct, burning sun. An east- or west-facing window where some sheer curtain filters the sun is ideal. Under the open sky,dappled shade beneath trees mimics their native habitat. If your orchid isn’t blooming, it might need more light — but if the leaves are turning yellow or getting spotty, it is too much.

Soil

Vanda Orchids don't need soil. Instead, they’re ideal for wooden baskets, hanging planters or mounted on bark or cork slabs. The key is excellent airflow and allowing the roots to stay exposed. If necessary, you can line the basket lightly with coarse orchid bark or sphagnum moss to retain some moisture, especially if you’re in a dry climate.

Watering

Since Vandas don’t grow in soil, they require continuous moisture through other means. In warm, humid conditions, daily misting is ideal. In drier conditions or during hot spells, soak the roots in water for 15–30 minutes every day or every other day. Let the silvery white roots become greenish — they should dry out completely between soakings to avoid rot.

Water less frequently in the cooler months, but don’t allow your succulent’s roots to dry out completely for extended periods. Remember: healthy Vanda roots should be thick and firm.

Pruning

Pruning Vanda Orchids helps manage their size, encourages blooming, and keeps the plant healthy. Here’s how to handle it:

• Best time to prune: After blooming or in late winter.
• What to prune: Prune spent flower spikes by cutting near the base.
• Remove: Dead, dry, or rotted roots with disinfected scissors.
• Pro tip: Never cut healthy green roots, since those are essential for the plant’s survival.
• Bonus: A tidy Vanda = better air circulation = more reliable blooms.

Propagating

Vanda Orchids can be multiplied by keikis (offshoots) or by dividing the adult plants.

• Watch for baby plants (keikis) on the base or stem.
• Wait until the keiki has at least 2–3 roots that are several inches long.
• Cut it from the parent plant using sterile scissors.
• Mount or pot the keiki like a mature Vanda, in bright light and high humidity.
• Mist regularly and wait—it takes time to establish.

Growing in Pots

While Vandas don’t grow in traditional pots, you can still enjoy them indoors by adapting their container needs:

• Grow in open wood-slatted baskets or mount to bark or cork.
• Avoid enclosed pots — roots require air flow.
• Place the basket near a sunny window and provide enough humidity.
• Mist or soak the roots as necessary, but allow to dry out completely between waterings.
• Indoors, consider placing a humidity tray or using a humidifier to boost air moisture.

Overwintering

Vanda Orchids can’t tolerate cold. Bring them inside when temps drop below 55°F. Set them in a bright, warm environment with humidity, preferably near a south-facing window or under grow lights. Mist frequently, reduce watering slightly and do not let the roots dry out completely.

Blooming

Vanda Orchids will produce flowers 2–3 times per year if they were provided a lot of light and high humidity.Feed regularly during active growth.Once a bloom finishes, snip the flower spike to redirect energy. Lots of light = lots of blooms—so keep them close to the sun (but not in it).

Common Issues

Vandas are relatively robust as long as they receive the right conditions, but be on alert for:

• Root rot → From over-watering or inadequate aeration
• Leaf spotting → May be connected with fungal or bacterial infection
• No flowers → Generally lack of light or low humidity
• Spider mites or scale → Use neem oil or insecticidal soap

Summary

Dramatic and showy Vanda Orchids are a show-stopping flower for those who  love tropical beauty! Their bizarre way of growing — in air! — makes them so visually interesting but also so horticulturally satisfying.

With proper light, humidity and regular care, you can enjoy its showy flowers multiple times a year. These exotic, brightly colored blooms are so gorgeous and showy hanging in a well-lit window or swaying from a patio beam. They always bring a lush, luxurious feel that’s hard to beat.