Guide to watering Orchids | Earthly Orchids | Orchid Care
Guide to watering your Orchids
It is very important for you to know when and how to water your orchid. It's an essential part for the success of your orchid. The more probable cause of orchids death are improper watering. It's not complicated to water orchids, it simply requires basic understanding of how orchids work.
Constant wetness will cause the roots to rot, which leaves the plant without a means for taking up nourishment which then causes the leaves to droop and will eventually kill the orchid plant. One trick is to use the pencil trick, the point of a sharpened pencil, when inserted, it will darken with moisture if the plant has enough water. Another old way but is sure trick is to put your finger in the mix. If it feels wet, it is wet. If you aren't sure whether it is time to water, wait one more day.
Why? Simply because, so that your orchids dry out by night time. Also, the size of your orchid container also helps determine how often you need to water, regardless of climate conditions. Typically, a 6-inch pot needs water every 7 days and a 4-inch pot needs water every 5 to 6 days.
Water orchids about once a week with lukewarm or room temperature water. When watering the orchid, try to pour it under the plants leaves. If you get the crown wet (the center part of the plant from which everything is growing) then wipe it dry with a paper towel. If the crown stays wet for too long, then it can lead to crown rot, which will kill the plant. You might need to water the orchid more often in the summer and less often in the winter. If you can’t tell what the plant needs, it’s best to give it another day.
The quality of water used, whether for spraying or watering, is of great importance. Since tap water has often been chemically treated, generally with chlorine, it should be used with caution. The best water for orchids is undoubtedly rainwater. Rainwater, as it passes through the air, dissolves and absorbs many substances such as dust, pollen and other organic matter. This enriched rainwater contributes to the nourishment of the plant. Nowadays, most people just use tap water, and this is fine. However, be aware that treated water may have higher salt content, and some water is high in calcium. If you see deposits forming on your plants, you should seek out a new water source.
Make sure your pot has enough holes for drainage to avoid containing the water in the pot which may lead to rotting the roots. Some people like the pot that is placed on the pebbles above the water line. This helps to insure that the base of the pot is not immersed in water, increases humidity for the plant, and provides some air circulation under the pot.
