As a high-end ornamental plant, orchids are loved and favored by many people. However, due to their somewhat difficult cultivation, many people are deterred. Among these, watering is one of the key aspects of orchid cultivation. Improper watering can hinder the growth and development of orchids, or even lead to their death. This article will introduce the key points of watering orchids to help you cultivate them easily.
Understanding the Basic Principles of Orchid Watering
Correct watering is the foundation for successful orchid cultivation. For most orchids, their natural growing environment is in tropical or subtropical regions, requiring a high-humidity environment, but also good ventilation and drainage. Improper watering can lead to an overly humid environment, making orchids susceptible to bacterial infections. When watering, the following principles should be followed:
1. Identify the orchid species and its habits, and water according to the needs of different varieties;
2. Ensure that there is no standing water at the bottom of the pot;
3. Mist the leaves to increase humidity.
Watering Frequency
The watering frequency of orchids is related to their growing environment, but generally, it is higher in summer than in winter. For orchids, it is generally recommended to feel the soil surface before watering; if it feels dry, you can water. At the same time, it is also important to promptly drain excess water after watering.
Watering Methods
1. Soak the orchid in water for about 10 minutes, which allows its roots to fully absorb water;
2. Maintain a steady flow when watering to avoid damaging the orchid;
3. Using water that is too hard or too soft can negatively affect orchids, so it is best to use distilled water or rainwater;
4. After watering, promptly pour out any excess water from the bottom of the pot.
Watering in Special Situations
1. Mix a humidity regulator into the potting soil to increase soil moisture;
2. For orchids that need nutrients, a small amount of liquid fertilizer can be added to the water.
How to Tell if an Orchid Needs Watering
You can determine the degree of dehydration by observing the orchid's leaves; if the leaves show obvious wilting, it means the orchid needs watering;
How to Deal with Improper Watering
1. If there is standing water at the bottom of the pot, it should be cleaned promptly;
2. If the soil is too moist, excess water should be drained;
3. If the orchid develops diseases due to improper watering, corresponding measures must be taken to prevent and treat them.
How to Control Orchid Humidity
1. Use equipment such as humidifiers to increase environmental humidity;
2. Move the watered orchid to a well-ventilated place;
3. Spray an appropriate amount of water around the orchid.
How to Choose the Right Pot
1. It is best to choose a pot made of a breathable material, such as ceramic or sandstone;
2. Also, choose a pot size suitable for the orchid's growth; generally, it is recommended not to exceed twice the size of the orchid's root system.
How to Handle Orchid Leaves
1. Orchid leaves are relatively fragile, so they should be cleaned gently;
2. If leaves show signs of disease, they should be pruned in time to ensure the orchid's normal growth.
How to Maintain Uniform Watering
1. Use bottom watering to allow the orchid to absorb water more evenly;
2. When watering, you can use a rotating method to allow water to penetrate the potting soil evenly.
How to Ensure Orchid Health
1. Regularly prevent and treat pests and diseases on the orchid;
2. Provide the orchid with adequate nutrition and fertilizer;
3. Maintain the orchid's ventilation and drainage capabilities.
When Not to Water Orchids
1. It is not advisable to water orchids during their dormant period or in winter;
2. Do not water the orchid too soon after it has been repotted.
Watering Points for Different Orchid Varieties
1. Oncidium: Prefers high humidity and needs frequent misting;
2. Phalaenopsis: It is not drought-tolerant, but it cannot be too humid either;
3. Dendrobium: It is necessary to avoid overly moist soil, otherwise it will have adverse effects on its growth.
How to Help Orchids Absorb Water Better
1. Before watering, you can place the orchid in a shaded area to allow it to absorb sufficient nutrients;
2. When watering, you can add an appropriate amount of root growth hormone to enhance its water absorption capacity.
As a high-end ornamental plant, orchids require many considerations when watering. This article has introduced knowledge about the basic principles of watering orchids, watering frequency, methods, watering in special situations, how to determine if an orchid needs watering, and more. I hope this can be of some help to everyone.