Saturday, January 8, 2011

The Correct Way to Water Orchids

By Nancy Molins


There is a correct and an incorrect way to water orchids and so you need to understand this so that you may care for them properly. As with all plants, orchids need a proper growing environment to achieve their potential. And a vital consideration in providing your orchid the correct environment in which to grow is to make certain that it receives the correct amount of water.

The quantity of water that is necessary for an orchid's growth is not the same for all the various species of orchids and therefore it is vital that you understand the requirements of your specific plant. In this regard it is beneficial that you know about orchids in general and where they come from

Orchid plants are typically found in tropical climates. The areas where many orchid plants are found receive a tremendous amount of rain. It can also be very humid in their native habitats. In fact, the ideal humidity level for most orchid plants is 80%. Considering that a room that is kept at 80% humidity would be extremely uncomfortable for most human beings, you need to find other strategies in order to keep your orchids happy and healthy.

Steady access to water is probably the best way to maintain the level of humidity needed to grow your orchids. Purchase a deep bowl or saucer and some pebbles from your local craft store. Place the rocks in the deep dish. Place your orchid in a pot with holes in the bottom of it atop the rocks. Then add water to the rocks. The water should not be touching the pot with the orchid in it. If you set your orchid up this way, you can create the appropriate level of humidity for them.

Watering the orchid plant too much is a very common mistake among people who try to cultivate this plant. Most people assume that the plant needs water if the soil in the pot appears to be dry. With orchids, this is simply not the case. The potting bark still holds moisture within the material even when the outside layers appears to be dry.

In general, it is not necessary to water orchids more frequently than once a week, or even every other week, and even then one must use water moderately. Proper orchid care in your house requires that you allow the potting soil to fully dry before you provide any additional water. There are types of orchids that grow symbiotically with other plants, that is, they grow from the trunks and branches of other, already established trees. In their native environments, it is usual for their roots to become completely dry before they receive more water.

In order to avoid any damage to the cells of the orchid plant, one must utilize water which is lukewarm or at room temperature because water which varies by ten degrees Fahrenheit from room temperature, either above or below, will be harmful to the plant. You must water orchids with water that is comfortable to the touch and is neither too hot nor too cold.

Creating a good routine for watering and fertilizing your orchid is an excellent way to guarantee that you will be able to enjoy these exotic plants for a long time. Orchids will thrive in your home environment if they are given the proper care including the right amount of potting bark, the right amount of water, the proper amount of sunlight and if they are fertilized occasionally.

However, keep in mind that orchids can be a fickle plant. But with a good understanding of the plant, you can expect to easily grow and cultivate these gorgeous and exotic blooms. And you can enjoy them throughout their blooming season. Follow these tips for the proper way to water orchids and you will be off to a good start.


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