Are mini orchids just baby orchids?

As a general rule, these species never grow to be as big as full-sized orchids, as it is in their genes to be on a miniature scale. That's because they are not baby orchids, but a whole different species. Some orchid species have been selected by gardeners to be 'mini'.


What is a mini orchid?

Mighty Minis - The Tiny Phalaenopsis

Small in size but big in popularity. Sometimes referred to as teacup orchids or orchid minis, these small Phalaenopsis plants are perfect for apartments and small homes with limited space. In addition, they are affordable for beginners and a great option to give as gifts.

What kind of orchids are mini orchids?

Mini Phalaenopsis orchids are the smallest size in our orchid portfolio. Like all of our Just Add Ice® orchids, miniature orchids are also easy to care for and bloom throughout the seasons. But because they're smaller, they require less water.


Will a mini orchid stay small?

They truly are genetic miniatures, the chihuahuas of the orchid world, and won't get much bigger over time. If you like small orchids with small flowers, go ahead and buy one. If you prefer bigger orchids with big flowers, buy one of those.

What is the life span of a mini orchid?

In the wild, orchids are able to live about 20 years, depending on the type of orchid and the environment. Potted orchids do not have quite the same life span, but with proper care, it is not usual for orchids to live for between 10 to 15 years. There are some reports of orchids living for significantly longer.


5 awesome Mini Orchids you should know about!



How long does a mini orchid last?

Their flowers will last for several months. Often mini Phals will have more than one flower stalk. And, they are available for a fraction of their full-size counterparts.

How tall does a mini orchid get?

This plant is approximately 6-10" tall along with a pot that has a 2.5" diameter. Comes in a white planter. Orchids prefer indirect sunlight. This plant does best when the soil is evenly moist and watered when dry to the touch about once a week.

How often do mini orchids flower?

When grown as indoor plants, Phalaenopsis orchids typically flower once a year, but some orchids rebloom every three to six months. With proper care, the blooms should last two or three months before fading. Phalaenopsis orchids usually bloom in the winter through the spring.


What to do with mini orchids after flowering?

That's easy. Cut the flower stems off at the base right after flowering. Then if your plant attempts to produce new flowering stems over the next couple of months, you just remove them as soon as you notice them forming. Once removed, its effort will be directed towards growing new leaves and roots.

What does a mini orchid look like?

They can be pink, white, purple, and yellow; there are even "novelty" color strains such as green and orange. Since mini orchids are more compact than their full-size counterpart, they often have smaller blooms, though these blooms retain a vibrant color equal to that of larger orchid blooms.

How long does it take for a mini orchid to rebloom?

This dormancy stage usually lasts about six to nine months. After that, your orchid will have the energy to rebloom again. However, sometimes orchids need help with this process and require even more attention than they did before. With the right amount of tender love and care, you can get your orchid to rebloom.


How do I get my mini orchid to bloom again?

Follow these simple steps to help reblooming begin.
  1. Continue to water your orchid with 3 ice cubes once a week. ...
  2. Fertilize your orchid once or twice a month using a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength. ...
  3. Help your orchids grow by providing plenty of indirect sunlight.
  4. Put your orchid in a cooler spot at night.


Do mini orchids lose their flowers?

Naturally, your orchid's flowers will drop as part of the plant's life cycle, and many times, you won't need to take any action. Sometimes, however, the orchid will benefit from being pruned, especially if the stem is turning brown.

How do you keep mini orchids alive?

When You Bring Your Orchid Home
  1. In your home, place your orchid in a bright spot, but not in direct sun.
  2. Orchids are sensitive to cold and drafts. Keep them away from vents and outside doors.
  3. Feed once a month with an orchid fertilizer. ...
  4. After all of the orchid flowers have withered, cut back the stem halfway.


What do you feed a mini orchid?

Fertilize your mini orchid once a month.

Use a balanced fertilizer and mix it with water, diluting it down to half its recommended strength. If this fertilizer does not seem to do well for your plant, you can also try a high-nitrogen fertilizer, especially if you use a bark-based growing media.

When should I repot my mini orchid?

Unless your mini has been incorrectly potted, repot orchids after they have finished blooming. Trim the plant spike one inch above the top node if the spike is still green and healthy; one inch above the bottom node if the spike has turned yellow or brown.

How do you prune a mini orchid?

For healthy, green spikes: Find a node under the lowest flower bloom. Trim 1 inch above that node, or bump, on the orchid spike. For unhealthy, brown spikes: Cut all the way back to the base of the plant. For double-spike orchids: Cut one spike at the base of the plant.


Do mini Phalaenopsis stay small?

Mini Phalaenopsis will not grow much more than their initial size on the market. They are already adult size when you purchase them, not a baby version. They might gain a few more leaves and add an inch or two, but not more than that. Mini Phalaenopsis do not grow more than 6 to 10 inches (16 20 25 cm) tall.

Should I repot my small orchid?

Orchids should be repotted when new; every year or two; or when crowded roots push up and out of the pot. Spring: time for a close-up. Other than watering and occasionally fertilizing them, you probably don't look closely at your orchids all that often when they're not in bloom.

What does it mean to soak a mini orchid?

If your orchid is not getting properly hydrated, the easiest way to water an orchid potted in bark mix is to soak the pot in a large bowl or small basin full of water. Have the water level come up just below the lip of the pot, so that the bark mixture doesn't spill out. Soak for about 10 minutes to saturate.


Why is my mini orchid dying?

The most common reasons that plants die is due to overwatering and underwatering. Most people end up guessing about the plant's watering needs and either overdo it or don't do it enough. Even though orchids can go dormant, they also can die simply because plants do have a lifecycle and will die at some point, too.

How can you tell how old an orchid is?

Orchid owners can tell if leaves are older by checking to see if new roots are emerging from the stem where the leaves once occurred. Those roots will eventually form a mass of roots that will be visible.

How long do indoor potted orchids last?

Typically, orchids live for 20-25 years if grown indoors, though the life span of an orchid plant surely depends on how attentive its grower is and how well it's cared for.


Can a mini orchid rebloom?

Your minis will follow the same natural lifecycle of blooming, resting and reblooming if proper care is maintained. The spikes on your mini orchid will likely need to be trimmed after the final bloom falls, and you might need to consider repotting at some point in your plant's growth.