Since so many orchids are found naturally in sunny regions of the world, you would expect that the orchid in your home would require brilliant light too. Most like 4 to 6 hours of natural light each day. However, there are varieties that have slightly different needs. Harsh, hot direct light is never good. Bright or not, in general, orchids can be found growing in nature with lots of humidity and filtered light.<p />Orchid lights are a good way to ensure that your orchid gets the right amount, without having to guess. This way they have direct control over the amount of light their plant is getting. Many lights have clamp on fixtures, and can rotate 360 degrees and angle at 90 degrees. Florescent lights are good to encourage blooming, as they give light with no heat. A dark or shady apartment may need florescent orchid lights for 12 hours.<p />A combination of sunlight and fluorescent light makes a great combination for many orchid blossoms. The following principles apply regardless of which source of orchid light you are using. When your orchid is not getting enough light, it will tell you, by turning its leaves dark green. When the leaves turn pale green or yellowish it can mean that it is getting too much light, although it could also mean too much water. Your own experience will become the best way to tell when or how to adjust the orchid lights. When the leaves are bright green and glossy, then your orchid is doing well. And when your orchid is blooming you can be assured you are doing a good job in properly caring for your orchid.<p />If your plant is located by a window, be sure it is draft-free. An east window is very good for morning sun and most orchids will do well there. Indoor orchids need more light, as they are tropical in nature and used to getting more light outdoors. They are not used to winter at all. Remember, they don't need much if any direct sunlight, but an indirect light source.<p />Each variety of orchid has a somewhat different light requirement. Several do alright out in the shade, or in trees. For house orchids, artificial lights will give you the most control. You may want to purchase orchid lights for these types of orchids. Bright light and indirect sun is required by Cymbidiums, Vandas, Cattleyas, and Dendrobiums. Those requiring medium light, but no direct sun, are Oncidinae, Intergenerics, Oncidiums, Miniature Cattleyas, Phalanaenopsis, and Phramepediyms. Orchids requiring low light levels, in the source of bright, indirect light, are the Jewel orchids. These are Paphiopidilems, and some Angraecoids. LED orchid lights are available and provide high spectrum light for your indoor plants. Remember, if your orchid is Epiphytic, it has a root system that needs sunlight for photosynthesis.<p />You can find a wide range of orchid lights, from very simple to the deluxe variety with timers and other accessories. Inexpensive indoor orchid lights offer a assortment of popular reflectors. Digital indoor grow lights give you a little more control. Air-cooled indoor orchid lights make sure light temperatures don't get too hot for your plant. In general, when orchids are in a resting phase, they won't require as much light. In growing or flowering seasons, they will need to have more light. Do not put an orchid in the dark when it is not flowering. It still requires sunlight, as all plants do, for photosynthesis.<p />An orchid light can make caring for your orchids a little easier. It removes one of the crucial variables required by your orchids for healthy, vibrant growth and bright blooms. Whatever orchid light you select, first make sure you know the individual light demands of your orchid.
