How can I get my orchid to re-bloom?

Question

I've had an orchid for over two years now. I was blooming when I bought it, and it hasn't since. The plant is certainly still alive, and has put up two new leaf-stems since, both very healthy looking. Each time I've waited for flower buds to appear at the top of the new stem, but to no avail.

It's potted in what I've come to know as orchid potting mix--a loose mix of dried bark and other things. There are lots of roots exposed varying in color from light brown to white to pale green. I water it every two to three days--whenever the soil is dry, and fertilize with regular miracle-gro occassionally. It's sitting in front of a bright east-facing window.

Is there a special fertilizer that will encourage flower growth? Or is there some other reason the plant won't flower?

Answer 1

feed it sugar. just drop it in the soil. do this every week. it worked on mine. if it blooms, and then the flower wilts, pick the flower as soon as it shrivels up, even if the seeds aren't fully formed. this will make it bloom again. if none of this works, wait until next year. if it doesn't bloom in spring/ summer '09, then you should get a new one.