How to water orchids and how much water to use
Today, the editor will explain how to water orchids, how much water to use, the best time, and the key points of watering flowers and plants. Let's share the detailed content next.
Orchids are beautiful and noble flowers, with various colors and shapes, known as the "Queen of Flowers." Orchids not only decorate the home but also have some medicinal value. However, the maintenance of orchids is not simple, and many people encounter problems such as withered, rotting, and shedding leaves. Among them, watering is a key part of orchid maintenance and also the most likely to make mistakes. So, how to water orchids correctly?
One, when to water orchids?
The timing of watering orchids depends on the season, temperature, humidity, and the dryness or wetness of the soil. Generally speaking, in spring and summer, the temperature is high, and water evaporates quickly, so it is necessary to water frequently; in autumn and winter, the temperature is low, and water evaporates slowly, so less water is needed. The specific method to determine is to insert a finger into the soil, and water when it feels dry; if the soil still feels moist, do not water. Also, the best time to water orchids is in the morning or evening, avoiding watering at noon or at night. This allows orchids to absorb enough water while avoiding sunburn from water droplets on the leaves in the sun or the growth of bacteria at night.
Two, how to water orchids? How much water to use?
The method of watering orchids should be chosen according to the type and growth habits of the orchids, and the amount of water should be adjusted according to the growth state and environmental conditions of the orchids. Generally speaking, orchids need more water during the growing period and less water during the dormant period. The method to determine the growing and dormant periods is to observe the roots and new buds of the orchids. If the roots are green or white and the new buds show obvious growth, it means that the orchids are in the growing period; if the roots are gray or brown and the new buds stop growing, it means that the orchids are in the dormant period.
1. Immersion Method: Suitable for orchids growing in loose media such as bark or moss, such as Phalaenopsis and Cymbidium. This method involves placing the entire pot of orchids into a container filled with clean water, allowing the roots to be fully immersed in water for about 10 minutes, then removing and drying them. Do not exceed 15 minutes of immersion.
2. Shower Method: Suitable for orchids growing in dense media such as peat soil, such as Cattleya and Dendrobium. This method involves using a spray bottle or hose to sprinkle clean water on the potting soil until excess water flows out of the bottom of the pot, avoiding waterlogging.
3. Spraying Method: Suitable for orchids growing in the air or attached to tree trunks, such as Air Orchids and Hyacinth. This method involves using a sprayer to spray clean water on the roots and leaves, keeping the root and leaf surfaces moist but not dripping.
No matter which watering method is used, it is important to note: avoid getting water on the flowers during watering to prevent discoloration or rot. After watering, promptly clean up any accumulated water in the pot and on the leaves to prevent root or leaf rot. The water quality should be clean, preferably tap water or rainwater, avoiding hard water or water containing impurities. The water temperature should be appropriate, preferably similar to room temperature, avoiding too hot or too cold water.
The above shared experiences and knowledge about how much water to use when watering orchids, as well as the best time and key points of watering, hope this article can bring you some help!