A friendly guide to abolishing horticultural genocide, one pot at a time So you've been given an orchid. This ancient flower is one of the most popular plants cultivated today, and has amassed a wealth of symbolism throughout its history. However, they are famously fussy. Everybody has a different tip, trick or close-guarded secret for keeping orchids alive you've probably heard of using icecubes as watering technique, or sunning the roots for example. With so much debate this beloved species, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. We're here to cut through the noise and give you exactly what you need to keep your plant happy, healthy and continually blooming. All you need is the patience of an orchid This is how to keep an orchid alive.