How to Grow Orchids in Low Light: Best Shade-Loving Varieties for Beginners

Published on August 2, 2025

Growing orchids can seem daunting, especially if your home lacks bright sunlight. But don’t worry! Many orchids thrive in low-light conditions, making them perfect for beginners with shaded spaces. In this guide, we’ll explore how to grow orchids in low light, recommend the best shade-loving varieties, and share practical tips to ensure your orchids flourish.

Why Choose Orchids for Low-Light Spaces?

Orchids are often associated with bright, tropical environments, but several varieties adapt beautifully to low-light conditions. These shade-loving orchids are ideal for apartments, offices, or homes with north-facing windows. By selecting the right varieties and following simple care tips, you can enjoy vibrant blooms without needing intense sunlight.

Best Shade-Loving Orchid Varieties for Beginners

Here are three beginner-friendly orchids that thrive in low light:

Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid): Known for their long-lasting blooms, Phalaenopsis orchids are perfect for low light. They prefer indirect light and can bloom for months with minimal care.
Paphiopedilum (Slipper Orchid): These orchids have unique, pouch-like flowers and tolerate low light well. They’re great for beginners due to their forgiving nature.
Ludisia (Jewel Orchid): Unlike most orchids, Ludisia is prized for its stunning foliage. It thrives in low light and adds a decorative touch to any space.

How to Care for Orchids in Low Light

Follow these essential tips to keep your shade-loving orchids healthy:

1. Choose the Right Location

Place your orchids near a north- or east-facing window where they receive indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. If natural light is limited, consider using a grow light with a low-wattage LED bulb for 10-12 hours daily.

2. Water Wisely

Overwatering is a common mistake. Water your orchids once a week, ensuring the potting medium (like bark or sphagnum moss) dries out slightly between waterings. Use room-temperature water and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.

3. Maintain Humidity

Orchids love humidity levels of 50-70%. In dry environments, place a humidity tray filled with pebbles and water near your orchids or use a small humidifier.

4. Fertilize Sparingly

Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can harm your plants.

5. Monitor Temperature

Most shade-loving orchids prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Keep them away from drafts or sudden temperature changes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Beginners often make these errors when growing orchids in low light:

Too Much Water: Always check the potting medium before watering.
Ignoring Humidity: Low humidity can cause leaves to wrinkle or buds to drop.
Wrong Potting Medium: Use orchid-specific mixes, not regular potting soil.

Conclusion

Growing orchids in low light is easier than you think! By choosing shade-loving varieties like Phalaenopsis, Paphiopedilum, or Ludisia and following proper care techniques, you can enjoy beautiful orchids even in low-light spaces. Start with these beginner-friendly tips and watch your orchids thrive!

Explore More Orchid Care Tips on OrchidShade.com