March 2, 2026
Spring starts early at Newfields, with the return of our famed orchids to the Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse and the IMA Galleries.
While we wait out the gray winter days, visiting the lush, humid Greenhouse, or taking home a stunning orchid from The Museum & Garden Shop can supercharge your start to the season. Now through March 15, Newfields springs to life with live orchids (available in store only) and orchid-inspired products (Members get 10% off).
For one more way to get your floral fix, stroll through the Museum and experience a taste of the tropics indoors even if it’s cold outside. Beautiful orchid displays are interspersed throughout, and we’ve taken inspiration from art and responded to four cultural themes in various galleries, inviting reflection on orchids as a remarkable symbol of diversity.
Orchids are possibly the largest plant family on the planet with over 25,000 known species. You can see hundreds of species and hybrids here on campus now.
There’s something new blooming every day at Newfields
Ian’s top three tips for thriving orchids
Light: While phalaenopsis orchids aren’t super fussy when it comes to light, Ian recommends bright east facing light in Indiana. Avoid direct sunlight, however. Note: Phalaenopsis sp. (moth orchid) are one of the easiest to grow at home and are widely available/affordable.
Water:The trickiest part of orchid care is watering. Orchid tags say “Let dry between watering,” but what does that mean? Ian says to physically pick up your orchid to tell if it’s dry... If it’s light, you’re ready to water. If you’re unsure, wait a few days and check again. Friendly reminder: rain, distilled, and/or reverse osmosis water is best (avoid city and softened water because they have minerals and additives your plants don’t encounter in the wild).
Potting Media: A fresh mix of potting media is key for your orchid. While sphagnum moss is common, it can easily get soggy if you’re not careful. Ian’s a big fan of his specialty mix which includes bark, perlite, and pumice. Bonus tip: Use orchid-specific fertilizer “weekly, weakly”–a helpful mnemonic.
Greenhouse Classes
Nothing can replace one-on-one time with our resident “Orchid Wizard,” Ian Wilhite. Have you signed up for a Greenhouse Class with Ian yet this spring?
Tickets going fast, book now:
