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How To Water Orchids (Useful Tips)

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Every species of orchid has its unique habitat (temperature, humidity, amount of light), which is critical for survival. This means they require different conditions of maintenance. But several rules are suitable for most orchids, and these are the watering rules.

Orchids have more than 25,000 species and 100,000 cultivars. Most often, rather unpretentious species appear in apartments.

Typically, this includes dendrobiums, cymbidiums, neofinetias, oncidiums, phalaenopsis, Psychopsis, ascocentrum, rhynchostilis, papiopedilum, grammatophillum. The main challenge that orchid lovers face is how to water them.

What Water To Water Orchids

No houseplant can live without water, so it essentially determines how long it will bloom and bring aesthetic pleasure to its owners.

For plants, water is essential because they receive nutrients and the ability to maintain the optimal temperature of the roots. Under natural conditions, the supply of nutrients to the orchid is provided by rainwater.

However, it is no secret to anyone that in modern cities, the liquid that comes in during precipitation is not as safe as the water that rains in tropical forests bring. Experts recommend using soft water for watering orchids. In some cases, moderately hard water can also be used.

How To Water Orchids
via Pixabay

How To Water Orchids

Immersion in water

The bottom watering method is the most effective when you want to water orchids. Many people prefer it because the water penetrates better into a dense substrate than when watering from above.

To do this, use a large container with water suitable for irrigation. The pot is slowly lowered into the water; otherwise, dry roots and substrate will push the plant out.

When immersed, the water must not reach the point of growth of the plant. It is enough to keep the pot in water for 10 to 15 minutes.

It is impossible to leave orchids in water for a long time because swelling of the leaves may begin, which does not go away and does not heal. This may lead to the leaf being removed. Then the water is allowed to drain.

Use a watering can

Use a long-nosed watering can to water orchids so that the water jet does not hit the growth points and leaf axils. Moisture is distributed evenly throughout the substrate and ensures proper watering.

When water begins to flow out of the drainage holes, take a break for 5 minutes, then repeat the procedure. It is most convenient to place the orchid pot in advance in the sink. After watering, drain the remaining water from the sump.

How To Water Orchids 2

Spraying the roots

Spraying the roots for orchids is beneficial if done infrequently. It is used where the flower grows in the new air blocks or dries quickly. The spray gun is directed at the plant at a distance of 20-25 cm during spraying. This is to avoid getting water on the leaves and stems.

For the procedure, settled, boiled, or warm water is used. Of course, there are practically no nutrients in boiled water, which is important to consider. Spraying is carried out only in the warm season, about once a day or less often. The procedure is done early in the morning.

The spray bottle should spray the water in small drops, not large ones. Most orchids tolerate this procedure well, but spraying is never carried out for the Miltonia species because the plant does not accept it. Spraying orchids in the evening can lead to sourness and decay of the root system.

Hot shower

This method is most often used by gardeners when water orchids. This is because it is as close as possible to the effect that warm tropical rains create. This method accelerates plants gaining green mass, which has a positive impact on their flowering. 

It is also helpful to regularly rinse the leaves of the orchids, as this will prevent the appearance of various pests. However, it should be done in mind that this method can only be used by owners of apartments where soft water flows in the water pipes. 

Neglecting this recommendation can lead to the beginning of rot, preventing the orchid from growing further. 

How To Water Orchids 3
via Reddit

Watering Time for Orchids

The environment in which an orchid grows is crucial for its healthy development. The lighting, temperature, and humidity in the room affect how often you water. 

For example, the flower is in a sunny and warm room in the summer because the substrate dries faster. In winter, the roots stay moist longer and do not require regular moisture. Also, the watering of orchids depends on the flowering period.

  1. During the rest period

When the orchid fades, for 2-3 months a year, it falls into a dormant period, which is necessary to gain strength before the subsequent flowering. During this time, watering orchids should be kept to a minimum. A humid microclimate is observed in the room, and the roots are allowed to dry out. Watering the flower is not often, about three times a month, with periodic drying of the substrate. If done correctly, the plant will delight with new arrows.

  1. During the budding period 

The ovary of new buds is a crucial period for an orchid. For them to form, the moisture of the orchid must be abundant.

  1. During the flowering period

The orchid reacts painfully not only to insufficient watering but also to its excess. When the first flowers bloom on it, the leaves and stems require more moisture. 

To nourish them, watering must be intensified, but not overdo it, creating stagnant water in the substrate. The soil takes time to dry out. Some types of orchids shed their buds or begin to rot due to the abundance of moisture.

  1. In the warm season

In spring and summer, the air temperature rises and daylight hours increase, but the humidity remains low. Orchids bathe in the sun, so watering should slightly increase to 1-2 times a week.

  1. During the cold season

Closer to autumn and cold winter, the watering frequency is reduced, especially if the flower is in a cool room with high humidity. It is at this time that many varieties of orchids are immersed in a state of dormancy.

So, irrigation should be reduced to one time in 7-10 days and winter in 2 weeks. If the pot is near the heating devices, then the soil will dry out faster.

  1. After the transplant

Transplanting flowers is always stressful for a plant. The store substrate is very dry, so the orchid must be watered immediately after transplanting into a new pot. If this is not done, the plant will begin to rot, ache, and wither over time. 

Water the flower directly into the pot and immerse it in a container of water for a short time. Then leave it in a dark place for 1-2 weeks so that the orchid has time to adapt to new conditions. The second time, it is necessary to water the orchid correctly as soon as the substrate dries up after 1-2 weeks.


Conclusion

Orchid is a tropical plant that can adapt to long periods of drought. That is why it is better to dry it slightly than to pour it; otherwise, it will begin to fade and die. But if you follow all the rules on watering an orchid, it will become a natural home decoration for many years.