4 Top Tips On How To Water Orchids

The watering method is crucial to the healthy and optimum growth of orchids. In order for these plants to keep their vibrant and attractive blooms, they require growing conditions which are similar to their natural habitat in wild forests. There is an appropriate method to water orchids of various types. If you want to ensure that your orchids bloom beautifully, you need to understand the importance of watering orchids and how to do it properly. The particular amount of water an orchid requires relies on different factors but here are some useful tips to guide you in watering your orchid:

1) When to Water Orchids – Generally, for orchids grown indoors, it's best recommended to water them approximately once a week or when the potting media seems to have dried out thoroughly. Over watering is a very common mistake among beginner orchid growers. Do not take the assumption that orchids need to be watered frequently just because they grow in tropical areas. Their roots are capable of absorbing moisture from the tree bark's water and retaining it for the plant for several days. Hence, too much water may actually kill them. Orchids have distinct moisture needs. Moreover, factors such as temperature, season, container size, potting media and many other environmental factors influence how often orchids need to be watered. Generally, orchid growers must stick to the once-a-week suggestion and observe if the plant responds well. Also, the best time for watering orchids is in the morning so that it can dry out by night.

2) How to Know if Your Orchid Needs Water – You will know if your orchid needs water by poking your finger unto the pot. If you feel that it is still moist, do not add water yet. Sometimes, the pot's surface may appear dried out. However, the plant's roots may still be quite moist.

3) How to Water Your Orchid – Pour water into the pot and just let the excess amount of water to run through the potting medium. Soak the plant thoroughly except for the flowers. Tepid rainwater is best recommended since it has nutrients good for the plant while tap water usually consists of chlorine and chemicals. If you don't have the opportunity to collect rainwater, distilled water is fine. Remember to let your orchid dry completely between watering. Spraying your orchid on hot days is also good for your plant.

4) How to Maintain Humidity – To create humid conditions similar to their original wild environmental settings, you can arrange a layer of wet pebbles, sand and/or gravel in a small container/tray which will serve as a base on which the orchid pot can be put. The water which evaporates provides moisture which creates humid conditions surrounding the orchid. Keep the pebbles and gravel wet and check if the pot is not touching the water.

These are some of the important factors to consider when watering your orchid to ensure its healthy condition and to see its charming flowers with vibrant colors.

By: Rejoice Matthews

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Rejoice is an orchid expert. For more information on watering orchids, visit www.growyourorchids.com/water-orchids/.