THE cooler weather is forcing us inside, which brings my attention to houseplants. I notice that my Phalaenopsis, bought from Ikea around three years ago for £6.99, is once again in full bloom. Orchids look so exotic with their elegant sprays of large flowers on strong arching stems, but they are actually pretty easy to keep – provided you don’t over-water them. I water mine once a week (less in winter) from below, half filling a washing-up bowl with water and placing the pot into it for a few minutes, then leave it on the drainer for 20 minutes before putting it back in its decorative pot.

There are many hybrids in shades of pink, red and white with various flower markings, but all like bright light – but not direct sunlight. The temperature needs to be warm, with high humidity, although cool nights are important.

Don’t worry about the rambling roots which spread out of the surface of the pots. They are simply searching for nutrients. In summer, feed fortnightly.

When they have finished flowering cut the stem back to the second lowest bud to get a new shoot.