subject: Watering Orchids A Case Of Careful Consideration [print this page] How much water is good for orchids? How much is too much?
Watering orchids properly is of utmost importance in successfully growing any species of orchids. To what extent to water is just as significant for the orchid's survival and flowering production as to when to water. It must be noted that the watering interval and the quantity of water required for each different species of orchids is quite specific to each one. Therefore, it is a good idea to research your orchids well. Your ultimate orchid growing enjoyment and success will be well served by the time spent upfront in research and establishing the correct home growing environment before actually purchasing your orchids. Of course if you already have orchids it is never too late to start on a regime more suited to your particular species.
Most of the widely found orchid species are native to tropical areas which are heavy rainfall and high humidity regions. Hot, humid weather is tops for these types of orchids. For your orchids to thrive well at home, it is ideal to have around a 80% level of humidity in the air. Fortunately, as most of us would find this would bring too much discomfort for us, there are ways to devise a suitable micro climate for the benefit of your orchids overall health. By maintaining the right humidity conditions for your orchids you will aid in optimum blooming performance. The simplest way for orchids to stay moist is adequate watering. Also, another way of increasing humidity when days are quite warm and dry is by setting your plants over deep saucers or trays filled with pebbles and water. Make sure that the plants are not in contact with the water. When water evaporates from the tray it optimizes the moisture content of the air around the orchids providing an artificial high humidity climate.
Some tropical orchid species that attach themselves to the branches and trunks of trees have thick stems that allow them to store and hold water for the dry periods to come. Due to the amount of misinformation that exists, it behoves to correct two serious errors in orchid care. First big error being over watering. There is a mistaken idea that when the outer surface of the potting bark appears to be dry the orchid plants need to be watered. This is not always true, particularly with orchids. The most ideal method for orchid watering is once a week or once every other week, with restrictions. When it comes to successful domestically grown orchids, allow the potting medium to totally dry out before giving them water.
The second big error is over-fertilizing. In order for orchids to thrive and reach their maximum flowering capability, they need to be fertilized at the right time and in the right amount. Most garden shops within your area will offer orchid fertilizers with lists of suggested quantities to apply. It will benefit both you, your orchids and the environment to choose organic natural fertilizers over chemical ones. Customizing a suitable procedure of watering and fertilizing for your orchids is a way of ensuring the enjoyment of flourishing vibrant blooms for many seasons.
Over the years many hybrids have been developed and there are thousands of orchid species which are continuously being developed and cross-bred increasing the wide array of colour, sizes and shapes available. By now orchids have become one of the most highly favored household plants especially due to the huge variety of gorgeous specimens and enticing scents. Caring for orchids is no longer complicated and many orchids in excellent variations are now available that are suited to being cared for in your own home. You have plenty of options to choose from, making it possible for you to find particular orchid species that will be well suited to your circumstances and ability. Thus, giving you more ease and comfort growing them right in your own home.
Orchids, though tropical in nature, can thrive in homes as long as given the right amount of watering and fertilizing, light and air conditions, and a nutrient-rich potting media. Next to the fact that orchids are such a gorgeous flower, they can also be unpredictable. But by understanding their origin and the specific orchid care requirements for your species will give you the know-how to get them to thrive beautifully for your sheer pleasure. You will enjoy exceptional orchids with exotic blooms and fabulous scents that make an elegant display in your home year-round.
