In cloudy northern regions, a full southern exposure may be necessary during winter. As a guideline, lay a piece of white paper in the proposed plant location and raise your hand, palm down, about a foot above it. If your hand casts a well-defined shadow, the light is too bright. If there is no shadow at all, the light is too dim. A fuzzy shadow indicates that the light is just right for the orchid.
Artificial lighting is an option that makes sense in many situations.
Position the lights 6 to 12 inches above the leaves. Turn the lights on 12 to 16 hours during the day. A moth orchid grows well under the lights, but once blooming you'll want to move it to a location where it is easier to see and appreciate. Read the Leaves . Pay attention to the foliage of your orchid to learn if the light you are providing is right.