Orchids should never be planted in regular potting soil, which retains too much moisture and suffocates the roots. Use a specialized orchid bark mix or a blend of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss that allows air to circulate around the roots freely.
3. Poor Drainage
Orchid roots sitting in standing water will rot quickly. Always use a pot with drainage holes and never let your orchid sit in a saucer full of water. If you're using a decorative outer pot, make sure to empty it after watering.
4. Temperature Stress
Most orchids thrive between 60°F and 80°F (15°C–27°C). Keep them away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and heating radiators, all of which can cause sudden temperature fluctuations that stress the plant and cause blooms to drop prematurely.