Pleurothallid orchids prefer low to moderate light conditions. They thrive in shade or dappled light, similar to what they would receive in their natural cloud forest habitat. A north-facing window or a well-shaded east window is ideal. Too much light can easily stress these orchids, causing the leaves to yellow or develop dark spots.

For artificial lighting, keep the light intensity low and ensure the orchids are not too close to the light source. Aim for about 10-12 hours of light per day, adjusting the distance if the leaves appear bleached or sunburned.

Many Pleurothallids, particularly Masdevallia and Dracula, prefer cool to intermediate temperatures. Daytime temperatures should be kept between 60-75°F, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 50-60°F. High temperatures above 80°F can cause significant stress and even death for these orchids, so it's important to maintain cool conditions.

If you live in a warmer climate, consider placing your orchids near fans or in cooler parts of the home, such as basements or rooms with good air circulation.

Pleurothallids are humidity lovers, thriving best in 70-90% humidity. Achieving such high humidity levels indoors can be challenging, but placing them in a humid environment like a bathroom, using humidity trays, or employing a room humidifier can help.

High humidity needs to be paired with good air movement to prevent fungal infections. Using small fans around your growing area will help ensure the air doesn’t become stagnant.

These orchids like consistently moist but not waterlogged conditions. Water frequently, ensuring the potting medium never fully dries out. Pleurothallids generally prefer pure, non-mineralized water, so using rainwater or distilled water can be beneficial to prevent salt buildup, which they are sensitive to.

Water in the morning to give the plants time to dry out slightly during the day. Avoid wetting the leaves too much, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal issues, particularly in species like Dracula.

Because these orchids grow in cool, moist environments, they have a slow metabolism and do not need heavy feeding. Use a very diluted orchid fertilizer (1/4 or even 1/8 strength) once a month during active growth in spring and summer. During the cooler months, reduce or cease feeding altogether.

Regular flushing of the potting medium with plain water helps prevent the buildup of salts from fertilizers, which Pleurothallids are particularly sensitive to.

Repot your Pleurothallid orchids every year or two to ensure the potting medium remains fresh and airy. Use a fine-grade bark mix, sphagnum moss, or a blend of both, depending on how much moisture retention your specific orchid prefers.

Pleurothallids often have delicate root systems, so be gentle during the repotting process. It’s best to repot just after flowering or at the beginning of the growing season when new roots are forming.

Pleurothallid orchids are sensitive to environmental stress, particularly heat. If your orchid’s leaves are wilting, shriveling, or showing black spots, check that temperatures are cool and that humidity is high. In warm, dry conditions, these orchids struggle and may not thrive.

Poor air circulation combined with high humidity can lead to fungal infections. Make sure there is adequate airflow, especially if you’re growing in an enclosed environment.