How to Grow Orchids Without Killing Them Share Filed to:angiosperms Photo: Mariia Boiko, Shutterstock Orchids are known for being tricky: They’re delicate, require watering and misting, and they need proper drainage and just the right amount of light. That level of plant care can be overwhelming, but once you’ve got a routine, you’ll knock it out of the park. Here’s how to care for an orchid in your home. Orchids need the right kind of pot and potting mix Orchids are epiphyte plants, basically meaning they don’t require soil; instead, the roots grasp onto trees and other surroundings. Since orchids are used to being out in the air with moving water and plenty of oxygen, you want to make sure you choose the right pot, like the rePotme carousel orchid pot and the mkono plastic pots for their ventilation holes and proper drainage.