Watering an orchid is not just moistening the soil, but a whole science on which its vitality and beauty depend.
These tropical beauties are capricious: they do not tolerate either drought or overwatering.
But having mastered a few simple rules, you will be able to create ideal conditions for the flower. We will tell you how to determine the water rate, watering time and avoid typical mistakes.
Basic principles of watering: why is the immersion method better?
Orchids, unlike most houseplants, receive moisture not through the roots, but through air layers. Therefore, classic watering from a watering can is not suitable for them. The optimal method is to immerse the pot in water.
1. Prepare a container - a basin or a deep flowerpot that will fit the orchid pot.
2. Fill it with water - the liquid should be settled, at room temperature. Boiled or rainwater is preferable, as it contains fewer salts.
3. Submerge the pot so that the water covers 1/3 of its height. This is enough to evenly moisten the substrate.
4. Add water from above using a watering can if the soil is too dry - this will speed up saturation.
Important! Do not immerse the plant deeper - excess moisture will cause the roots to rot. For epiphytic species (for example, phalaenopsis), 15-20 minutes is enough. Dendrobiums and cattleyas growing in the bark can be left for 25-30 minutes.
How do you know if an orchid is full?
A bright indicator is the color of the roots. Dry roots are silvery-gray, and after watering they become juicy green. This is why orchids are grown in transparent pots: it is easier to monitor their condition. Additional signs:
• Condensation appears on the walls of the container.
• The substrate darkens and becomes heavier.
• Leaves are elastic, without wrinkles.
After watering, let the excess water drain - leave the pot on a grate or towel for 1-2 hours. In winter, if the windowsill is cold, move the plant to a warm place at night to avoid overcooling the roots.
Author: Elena Shimanovskaya