Orchids Watering Practices Tips and Guide

Orchids are very unique in how they grow in the wild. They can be found clinging to trees and rocks, or growing in some leaves. They get all the water they need from the rain that runs or drips off of the trees or rocks to which they cling.

Obviously, the one place these plants do not receive water from is soil. Some species will grow in sandy soil, but most grow in or on other materials.

The best watering method for your orchids will depend on what type they are and what conditions they prefer in the wild. Whether you're talking about the tree clinging epiphytes or saphrophytes that grow in the leaves, too much water is usually more hazardous to your plant than under watering.

A modest watering every week will suffice for most species. How much that is depends on the type and size of the plant, as well as the size of the pot. Also, moisture in the air is just as important as water in the potting material.

Most orchids thrive in humid conditions (between 40-70%). The conditions your plant would live in naturally will give you an idea of the specific humidity to maintain. Obviously, those native to the jungles of Hawaii would do better in higher humidity.

It's easier than you might think to maintain the proper amount of moisture in the air, as well as in the potting material.

Drainage isn't usually an issue with orchids since the growing media is usually more loosely packed than soil. You do have to make sure you use the right size of bark chips or lava rocks or whatever the case may be. Each species will require a different density to provide the right amount of airflow.

Water should not be allowed to accumulate at the bottom of the pot. Choosing the proper set up will ensure that the roots will not be submerged in excess water. Automatic humidity trays and misters can provide the air with the proper moisture levels. Bonsai tree displays will often have this type of arrangement.

Sand growing orchids are called terrestrials, and are a bit hardier than other species. Although drainage is usually good with sand, you need to make sure the holes in the pot do not become plugged. If this happens, the roots will begin to rot from being submerged in water. Putting small screens on the holes will help.

The season will also dictate watering requirements. When the plants are actively growing and blooming, more water is required. At the end of the growing season, in late Fall and Winter, you can safely allow a six to eight week dry season. Orchids will do well on a bare minimum of water during this time.

Light, regular watering is the method to be used with orchids. Some plants, like bonsai, prefer to be drenched and then left to dry. This is not the case with orchids. An occasional spraying or water/fertilizer mix will do just fine, in addition to the moisture in the potting material.

         

Orchid Care - Orchid Growing Tips