Watering orchids isn't complicated, but they are different than other houseplants. Improperly watered plants are probably the cause of more deaths than any other reason. Whether you're watering or diving orchids, read on to learn all the tips you need!
How often to water orchids
Most orchids grown indoors are epiphytes, meaning they live in nature by clinging to trees or even rocks. The roots of these plants are highly specialized organs that differ significantly from those of other plants. Generallyshould orchidsWater once a week in winter and twice a week in warm, dry weather. A plant should not go without water for more than two to three weeks, otherwise it will begin to die. You can water orchids with three ice cubes per week (about 1/4 cup) to keep the plant hydrated throughout the week.
Understanding the roots of the plant
Orchid roots are surrounded by a paper-thin membrane called velamen. This versatile membrane quickly absorbs large amounts of water, adheres to rough surfaces and promotes the exchange of minerals and salts. Like an expensive water meter, the plant's velamen is an excellent indicator of your plant's water needs. Dry velamen is white or silvery, freshly watered velamen is green or speckled (depending on the species).
The best way to find the right watering is to the rootsyour orchidto read. Be careful, as most plants would rather be under-watered than over-watered. Orchid roots that are kept constantly wet will rot.
Different potting soils retain different amounts of water; Lumps of pine bark, for example, retain moisture longer than charcoal or clay balls. The higher the water retention, the less you have to water. Orchids can also be watered from above or below. Planted plants need more water than plants not planted. Standard mixes for orchids contain pine bark, tree fern fiber, peat moss, perlite and gravel.
Water or submerge orchids thoroughly
When you water the plant, do it like you mean business. Different gardeners have different rules, but many professional gardeners run their sprinklers for eight or more minutes. Successful home gardeners sometimes submerge their plants, pots and all, in a bucket or sink of water. Some varieties, such as B. Vandas, can stay swimming in the water for a surprisingly long time. The idea is to ensure that the velamen is completely saturated. After watering, tiny droplets should hang on the roots. This means the plant is fully hydrated.
Water orchids in bark or wood chips
Bark initially repels water, but if you place the pot in a container full of water, it will retain the water. Fill the planter with water to just below the top edge. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to saturate. Allow the water to drain completely. Make sure the entire pot is supplied with water evenly. Water orchids in bark typically every four to 10 days, depending on the plant and how quickly the bark dries out. Replace the orchid bark when the roots outgrow the edge of the container or it begins to break down and become mushy - usually every two years.
How to water the plants in moss
Sphagnum moss is a fine substrate that can hold water better than bark. It is an excellent substrate for young plants, but it is too hard for the delicate root structures to breathe or ventilate. One in sphagnumwatering potted orchidThe best way to do this is to hold the entire pot under the tap until the water flows freely through the drainage holes. Avoid soaking the water-sensitive crown of the orchid (where the leaves attach to the stem).
Orchids in other potting substrates
Other popular orchid potting substrates include perlite, gravel or stone, and tree fern. Each has advantages and disadvantages, e.g. B. in relation to water retention, decomposition and root aeration.
Baumfarnis a fiber obtained from the trunks of tree ferns. They are used as the main component of orchid soil. It retains water well except when it begins to decompose; then it loses its water retention and ventilation properties.
perlite, also known as sponge rock, is volcanic glass that is exposed to high heat. Its chemical name is sodium potassium aluminum silicate, which looks like small white Styrofoam balls. It does not rot and does not deprive plants of nutrients. It doesn't deliver eitherNutrients for orchids, but the substance has excellent water retention and ventilation properties. Additionally, perlite is easy to find at nurseries, garden centers, and online.
Gravel, stones, charcoal or clay pelletsDo not decompose like woody media and are reusable after sterilization. However, these media do not retain water well, and the plant and its roots can dry out quickly. If you use rocks or gravel-like potting soil as a substrate, water the plant regularly once a week to keep its roots from drying out. To water, hold the pot under a faucet of lukewarm, slowly running water until water flows out of the holes. Allow the plant to drain for 15 minutes.
Common mistakes when watering
Orchids are tropical plants, right? However, if you grow the plants in your home, it is very unlikely that you will be able to recreate the environment of a tropical forest with the right airflow, humidity and lighting conditions. So here are the most common mistakes made when watering orchids:
- Watering too frequently: Orchid plants should never be left in standing water. In many cases, the plant should dry out completely between waterings.
- Watering at Night: No matter what type of orchid you are growing, always water in the morning. Always. Watering at night can cause water to stagnate in the tips of Phalaenopsis orchids or in the perianths of cattleyas. This promotes bacterial and fungal diseases.Orchid plants shouldbe dry at the beginning of the night.
- Ignoring the plant's signals: Orchids are pretty good at telling you what they need. During the growing season, the pseudobulbs should be fat and plump, and the fleshy leaves should be held up by the potting mix and thick. Some deciduous species may shrink in winter. That's not bad. You should know what you are growing.
Factors affecting irrigation
If only there were simple instructions or a little water fairy hovering over your plants and telling you exactly when and how much to water. Unfortunately that doesn't exist. But that's one of the reasons people grow orchids. It's about balance and instinct - and a lot of patience. Here are some of the factors you need to consider when creating a watering schedule:
- Species: Make sure you are familiar with your particular species and follow the specific rules for its care. It's best to start with just one or two favorite varieties.
- The temperature: The higher the temperature, the greater the need for water.
- Humidity: The higher the humidity in the area, the less watering you generally need to do.The humidity is stableclosely related to the type of potting soil you use. Many home gardeners place their pots in a bowl of water filled with pebbles to increase the humidity.
- Airflow: Don't be afraid of a little air movement. Orchids like a lot of fresh air, both on the roots (on planted plants) and on the leaves. However, more airflow will dry them out faster, so you'll need to increase watering.
