How often to water orchids with hard planting material
Mastering the watering rhythm of orchids with hard planting material is the key to successful maintenance. Compared to traditional soil, hard planting material is composed of granules such as bark and volcanic stones, which have strong permeability but poor water retention, directly affecting the frequency and method of watering. This article will provide a systematic solution for orchid enthusiasts from scientific judgment of watering cycles, standardized operation techniques to maintenance essentials.
One, judgment of watering cycle for hard planting material
1. Seasonal changes affect watering frequency
In spring and autumn, it is recommended to replenish water every 2-3 days, in high summer temperatures, water should be replenished early in the morning every day, and in low winter temperatures, watering can be extended to once every 5-7 days. Monitoring environmental humidity should be used in conjunction with a thermometer, and the watering interval should be shortened when the air humidity is less than 50%.
2. Observation method of planting material dry and wet
The surface turning white is only an initial signal, you need to insert a bamboo stake into the matrix for 15 minutes and observe: if the bamboo stake is moist with soil particles, watering should be postponed, and if it is completely dry and has no attachments, water should be replenished immediately. The silver-white and wrinkled roots have already shown symptoms of water deficiency.
Two, professional watering operation specifications
1. Slow and thorough watering technique
Use a尖嘴壶 (sharp spout pot) to slowly pour water along the pot wall, maintaining a fine and slow water flow. The standard for thorough watering is to have water continuously flowing out of the pot bottom hole for 30 seconds, and it is better to water in two steps: the first time to half-thorough, and then water to full-thorough after an interval of 5 minutes.
2. Timing selection and water quality control
It is recommended to choose 9-10 am, and the water temperature should maintain a ±2℃ difference from the ambient temperature. Rainwater or purified water is best, tap water needs to be left to stand for 48 hours to remove chlorine, and the EC value should be controlled below 0.3ms/cm.
Three, maintenance supporting management measures
1. Environmental control essentials
Maintain 50-70% air humidity, and use fans to create a circulating air flow. Light intensity should be controlled between 10000-15000lux, and shade nets should be used to filter strong light during high temperatures.
2. Handling of abnormal conditions
If white crystals appear on the surface of the planting material (salt and alkali accumulation), it should be immediately rinsed with clean water continuously for 3 times. When black rot occurs in the roots, the planting material needs to be replaced and the diseased roots pruned, then soaked in carbendazim solution before being repotted.
Scientific watering is the core technology for maintaining orchids with hard planting material. By observing the state of the planting material, controlling the watering rhythm, and coordinating environmental control, it can ensure that the roots are moist without waterlogging. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log, recording the time of each watering and environmental parameters, and gradually master an individualized management plan.