Four Taboos for Beginner兰花 Care at Home
Today's plant experience introduces the knowledge of orchids, which belong to the orchidaceae family. Here are four taboos for beginner orchid care at home. Let's introduce them to netizens.
Firstly, avoid using a large pot for a small plant. The downside of using a too-large pot is that there is too much planting material inside, resulting in the outside being wet while the inside remains dry, and the roots won't get enough water. If you water too much, the outside will dry out while the inside stays wet, causing the planting material to rot and the roots to rot as well. You might think that more planting material means more nutrients, but that's wrong!
Secondly, avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizer can promote the growth, strengthening, and blooming of orchid plants, but don't assume that applying fertilizer will work as you intend. The effectiveness of fertilizer depends on other conditions and should be used in moderation. In general, use a light amount of fertilizer, or seek guidance from experienced individuals. There are many examples of beginners over-fertilizing and causing damage to the plants.
Thirdly, avoid over-watering.
Beginners are eager to see their plants grow and tend to water them excessively, worrying that there isn't enough water for the orchids. I understand this is love, but it's wrong. Orchids only need moderate amounts of water and sometimes need to dry out for a while. If you think you've provided enough water but the leaves show signs of dehydration, it could either be because the roots are damaged or the plant has been exposed to excessive wind (wind-drying), which means the air humidity is insufficient.
Fourthly, avoid planting too deep.
Planting orchids too deep is a common mistake among beginners. They think that burying the crown in the planting material will help it absorb nutrients or plant deeper to ensure stability. Both approaches are wrong. The correct method is to keep the crown of the orchid exposed above the pot surface to prevent rotting and new bud decay. If the newly planted orchid is unstable, it should be secured with a string or stake.
Have you understood the detailed introduction of the four taboos for beginner orchid care at home shared in this article?