subject: Why Orchid Watering Is Important [print this page] It doesn't take a genius to know that orchids need water. Like all living things, orchids need water to thrive and to live. Even though all of them need water, there are certain orchid types that need less water than others for sustenance. There are quite a number of growers that make the mistake of assuming that all orchids must be watered several times in a day or in a week. They get this misconception as they generalize orchids as native to tropical rainforests.
Unfortunately, watering orchids frequently will kill the roots of any orchid in short order. This makes it the no.1 reason of orchid deaths than any other. Watering orchids is not that complicated but it is different to watering any other house plants. Understanding the nature of the orchid and its basics are the key to making this object of beauty survive the conditions of your home. The vast majorities of orchids are epiphytes and live naturally clinging to trees and even in various rock formations. Orchids have roots that are highly specialized organs that differ from any other normal plant. In their natural habitat, orchids that live in tropical forests will be drenched by rains for hours and even days while some orchids are well adapted to a dry climate. In growing tropical orchids at home, try to duplicate the canopy environment of a forest. Consider the air flow, humidity and the sun or light factor. With this in mind, keep the surrounding environment of the orchid eco-friendly and make every effort to keep pollutants away. Some orchid growing beginners commit common mistakes initially by watering the orchid too often. As a rule of thumb, orchids grown in homes should be watered every 5 to 12 days. Between intervals, always keep the plant dry. Another is watering the orchid at night. This practice stagnates the water and will encourage various fungus and bacteria grow on the plant. Take notice also of warning signs coming from the plant as orchids may very well be the best plant at telling you what they need. Knowing how plump, thick and healthy the orchid should be in every season is a plus here. Always know what you're growing or else you might be lose a finger on that Venus flytrap you refer to as a Cactus flower.
Potting medium also affect the orchid's water requirement. Know that even when the surface is dry, the bottom or the root area might be moist and drenched with water. Watering the plant further will only prove harmful to the orchid. At best, try to poke your finger into the pot and feel if it's moist, if it is, refrain from watering the plant. Consider also the water being used. Tap water is treated water and has occasional high salt content and/or calcium content. If the plant has a negative reaction with the water after days or weeks of using it, look for another water source for the plant. No need to fetch water from a stream, just place a large container to collect rainwater as it rains. Undoubtedly, rainwater is the best water for any plant. Rainwater will dissolve organic matters as it passes through air which is perfect for orchid nourishment.
