The Importance of Watering Orchids Properly

Many people love the smell and beauty of orchids, but they are reluctant to grow them for a variety of reasons, not least of all because of cost and how difficult they can be to keep alive. Even though they can be hard to grow, most successful orchid enthusiasts find out that watering orchids properly is possibly the most important aspect to ensuring the grow and remain healthy.

A unique tropical plant when it comes to water

Most people think that a tropical plant will need a great deal of water. This is one of the myths surrounding orchids and it causes many to stumble when they try to grow them. If you give an orchid too much water, it can kill them pretty quickly. Most growers will tell you that for the majority of the year, they water their orchids once a week. In the summer months or in a climate that is more dry or hotter, it may be every 4-5 days.

Regulate the water when you tend to them

Even though many people may water their plants too often, there is also the risk of giving your plant too much water all at once. Orchids do not like being in standing water, or having the soil too damp. If you water them consistently, they should be watered when the ground is dry.

When is it best to water orchids?

For many plants watering them during the evening hours when the sun is going down is best. For orchids however that is not the case. The best time to water these plants is during the morning hours or midday. This will allow the roots and the rest of the plant to dry. All of the water will evaporate and thus protect the plant from fungal growth which is a big problem when growing orchids.

Great tips to growing healthy plants

A watering regime can become very easy if it’s done consistently according to a schedule. Each orchid should be watered approximately once a week, except in the summer months or in a dry climate when every four to five days should suffice. It is also important to make sure to water during the day so that no moisture can accumulate. Research your orchid to make sure you know the species you have which should allow you to determine if you need a little more care, or water. Most orchids also grow badly in soil with regular fertilizer. The best media to use is bark or moss. As long as you know your specific flower’s needs, then caring for your orchid becomes far easier than one might initially think.

Does the type of water matter

Some people think that tap water may harm your orchid, but that is not the case. Tap water is perfectly fine. What is important is the temperature of the water which should be close to room temperature. If the water is too hot or too cold, it may shock the plant and quickly kill it. Do not put any additive/fertilizers in the water either unless it has been specifically designed for your orchid.

A great plant will come from watering orchids properly

For many people, successfully growing orchids is something of an enigma. If an enthusiast can master watering their orchid(s) properly, then they should grow in to beautiful flowers.

Author Bio: Have a look at http://www.allaboutorchidcare.com/orchid-watering/ for more watering orchids tips or for more general orchid growing information have a browse around http://www.allaboutorchidcare.com/ , I think you’ll like it!

Category: Gardening
Keywords: orchid problems,orchid dying,orchid yellow leaves,orchid watering, orchids lighting,orchids info