Should i water orchids

We like to water by pouring over the top of the mix until the liquid runs through the drainage holes of the pot. Using a humidity tray under the plants makes life easier for us and for our plants because we can "water in place" without having to carry plants around and to the sink, and we have no drips and spills to mop up.

The orchids benefit too, because they have a more humid environment with the liquid evaporating under their leaves. It is like a tropical environment for them! One can determine moisture levels by learning the approximate weight of a plastic potted orchid when watered and when dry. It really is noticeable. Another approach, especially with sphagnum based mixes is to touch the top of the mix.

When it feels crunchy to the touch, that is a good indicator that it is time to water. There are other techniques too, but we find the two mentioned to be quite satisfactory. Many orchids really like to begin to get dry between watering.

Unlike houseplants, they don't like to be wet all the time and they also don't like water poured over the center of the plant, the crown. If water does accumulate in the crown, it is a good idea to try and remove it by dabbing with a paper towel or similar absorbent material.

Following these simple best practices should help keep your orchids happy and healthy. With care, they can help keep you happy and healthy for a long time too! Here's what you need to know to do it right. Watering orchids is more of an art than a science, a task that becomes easier as you get to know these beautiful blooming plants.

You'll notice potted orchids are usually grown in bark chips or moss instead of potting soil like most other houseplants, which is your first clue that orchids have some special hydration needs.

But like caring for any plant , it's important to avoid giving your orchids too much or too little moisture if you'd like a long-term relationship with them. These tips will help you avoid common watering mistakes so you can keep your orchids happy and thriving.

In general, the types of orchids most commonly grown as houseplants come from tropical regions of the world, but that doesn't mean they like constant dampness. And rather than growing on the ground in soil, these tropical orchid species are actually epiphytes plants that grow on other plants. That means their roots work a little differently than the roots of your other indoor plants , which is why orchids won't appreciate growing in regular potting soil.

Orchid roots need more air they can even photosynthesize like leaves do in sunlight and the chance to dry out between waterings. So if you're wondering how much water to give your orchids, it's better to give them too little water than too much.

How often to water your orchids depends on a number of factors, including how warm it is in your house, how much light the plants get, and the potting medium and even the type of container your plants are growing in.

Rather than watering on a schedule every Saturday, for example , it's best to look for certain clues to figure out when your orchid needs more water. All orchid mixes should be moistened thoroughly each time you water , then allowed to dry out almost completely before rehydrating.

Before watering, poke your finger into the moss or bark up to the first knuckle to make sure it feels completely dry. Meet the stripe-y, colorful, furry, and fun members of the clan.

Read on for tips for watering phalaenopsis moth , dendrobium, and oncidium orchids. So how do you water orchids? Another measure is to use the pencil trick the point of a sharpened pencil, when inserted into the medium, will darken with moisture if the plant has enough water. And, there's always the old standby - 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. Because most plants are grown in plastic containers a good diagnosis is the weight of the plant: heavy - does not need watering; light - does require water.

With a little practice, one can easily tell the amount of moisture remaining in the container. Water your orchid early in the morning. This insures complete water evaporation on the foliage as well as the crown by nightfall. If your home is very warm or has low humidity you will most likely need to water more often. The best place to water your plant is in the kitchen sink.

Use lukewarm water do not use salt softened or distilled water and water your plant for about 15 seconds and be sure to thoroughly wet the media. Then allow the plant to drain for about 15 minutes.