subject: The Best Methods For Watering Orchids [print this page] Every plant needs waterEvery plant needs water. But, knowing precisely when and how to water your plant can make a huge difference especially when dealing with orchids. As you and I already know, orchids are one of the most popular house plants due to their wide variety of beautiful species. Because each species of orchid can have different water requirements, it is important to seek knowledge about your particular plant. However, we can learn a lot about the orchid's water needs by looking back to its origins.
Humidity
As discussed in other articles, the orchid species is naturally found in tropical areas. These areas are characterized by heavy rainfall and high levels of humidity. The ideal humidity level for most orchids is 80%, an environment that no one wants to recreate at home. Fortunately, there is a very simple strategy to keeping your orchid healthy while maintaining your own level of comfort. The easiest way to humidify your orchids is to provide them with an artificial humidity climate.
Here are the 4 steps to creating an artificial humidity climate:
1. Purchase a deep saucer and some pebbles
2. Pour the pebbles into saucer
3. Securely position your orchid pot on top of the pebbles
4. Water the pebbles (make sure the water never touches the actual orchid pot)
Follow these steps and your orchids should thrive in any home environment.
Over Watering
Over watering your orchid will hurt your plant's health and ability to bloom. Most people attribute lack of growth in their plants to a lack of water. The question that is always overlooked is, "How much is too much?" It is assumed that when the potting soil of an orchid is dry, that the plant needs more water. This is not the case. Although the potting bark may appear to be dry, it can actually retain a lot of moisture. In their native habitats orchids grow on the branches of trees, so they often go long periods without water. Therefore, be sure to let the potting bark completely dry out before even thinking about watering your plant again. No you are probably asking, "How dry is too dry?" Well, the rule of thumb is to water your orchid once every 7 to 10 days.
In addition to properly watering your orchid, you need to fertilize your plant as well. Orchid fertilizer is widely available and can be found at any gardening store. If you create a good routine of watering and fertilizing, you are guaranteed to succeed in growing a beautiful plant that will last for years.
The orchid flower is one of the most beautiful, but it can also be temperamental. Creating the proper environment for orchids is very important, but also very easy. It is essential to give your orchid the proper care including:
1. Right amount of potting bark
2. Right amount of water (not too much)
3. Right amount of sunlight
4. Right amount of fertilizer
By following the guidelines above, you will see you orchids grow into beautiful and exotic plants.
