How to water an orchid?
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Native to temperate and tropical zones, the orchid is a perfect houseplant that adapts to all types of interiors. There are 25,000 species in 850 genera.
Previously exceptional flowers reserved for knowledgeable collectors, their cultivation has become widely democratized and it is not essential to be a specialist to own them.
Popular species like the white-flowered phalaenopsis and dendobrium bring a touch of no-nonsense sophistication to trendy vintage interiors and a breath of fresh air to a more classic-style apartment. But be careful, it's all in the art of watering!
1) The particularities of an Orchid
What is the natural environment of an orchid?
The most common orchids are tropical plants that live in trees. These species are used to experiencing periods of torrential rain lasting several days, but are also resistant to severe droughts .
The atmosphere in a home is very different from that of the canopy of a rainforest. Airflow , humidity , and light are very different.
So, we have some tips to keep your plant happy.
What is special about an orchid's root system?
Most orchids are epiphytes . This means that their roots cling to trees and stones . These aerial roots are high-tech organs that are far more sophisticated than ordinary roots. They are exposed to the sun, air, and water!
Surrounded by a thin tissue membrane called velamen , they quickly absorb large quantities of water. They cling to rough surfaces to collect minerals and salts , essential for their growth.
Some orchid species have water storage organs that allow them to store water during heavy rains to continue hydrating during dry periods. These include Cattleyas and Oncidiums. We recommend allowing their soil to dry out completely before watering them.
For species that lack this famous water storage organ, such as Phalaenopsis or Paphiopedilums, you will need to try to keep them moist before they dry out completely.
Observation is essential, because your plant, and especially its roots, tell you what to do!
2) Water your Orchid correctly
How do you know if an orchid needs water?
Most orchids are sold in transparent plastic pots . It's not aesthetically pleasing, but don't get rid of them . Because through the plastic pot, you can observe the roots, and they are the ones that will be your best indicator: if they are gray and clear, it means that the water is absorbed and it is time to water. When the roots are full of water, their color is dark, close to that of the leaves. So keep that plastic pot and invest in a pretty planter !
Without a transparent pot, you can weigh your plant. If it's very light, it needs water ! Another technique is to stick a wooden pencil into the soil. If the lead darkens, the soil doesn't need further watering. We recommend waiting another day.
Please note: the pot containing the plant must be pierced to drain the water.
How to water?
The best way to water is by immersion, or " basting ." Immerse your plant in a basin of water for 5-10 minutes , then let it drain for 15 minutes before placing it back in its pot.
The goal is to saturate the Velamen of the roots with water, by submerging it.
Above all, make sure that the water drains effectively after the operation, so as not to leave your plant swimming in it. It is imperative that there are drainage holes at the bottom of your pot. If this is not the case, drill them yourself or opt for repotting and take the opportunity to use a special orchid mix! ;)
In addition to the holes, you can place clay balls or small pebbles at the bottom of your pot. This will separate the soil from the water in the cup or planter. Your soil will be drained and a slight air circulation under the pot will be guaranteed.
For decoration, and for decoration only, you can place a beautiful watering can next to your orchid. However, direct watering is not the method we recommend for your orchids.
Mist!
Morning misting is a great routine for replicating the humidity these plants enjoy in tropical forests. Misting helps give your plants a little freshness, especially if you live in dry indoor spaces ! Always mist the foliage and aerial roots , but don't overdo it, to keep them healthy ! Click here to see our collection of designer misters !
When to water?
Your orchids prefer a room temperature of 18-22°C and thrive in a ventilated (but draft-free) and bright (but not excessively direct sunlight) room. In this context, during the flowering period, we recommend weekly watering after checking the condition of the roots or the soil (always!).
As explained above, you must wait until the soil has drained the water before watering again. At worst, it is better to underwater than overwater.
Is your home particularly dry and/or hot? Water more regularly! Similarly, if your plant is located near a window (light) or a radiator (heat), be sure to check the roots and soil regularly.
Which water should I choose?
Ideally, you should use rainwater collected using a water collector . Rainwater has been mixed with dust , pollen , and other organic matter as it falls. All of these elements will be beneficial for your plant. However, be careful that it is not dirty or stagnant.
If you are unable to collect rainwater, you can use tap water . This must be filtered to remove limescale and chlorine and at room temperature. Therefore, you should plan ahead before watering to pass the water through a filter jug or let it settle. This will also allow it to warm up. Avoid at all costs bathing your orchid in freshly drawn tap water.
Watering an orchid with ice cubes. A good idea?
This tip is often cited but we advise against it. It may seem quick and ingenious, but we find it dangerous for your plant mainly because of the diffusion of ice water on the roots , in total contradiction with the basic recommendations. We love to share tips to help you simplify the care of your plants but the time spent taking care of them is an integral part of the pleasure of having them. So ice cubes are a no !
3) Recurring problems caused by improper watering
What are the bad practices?
Mainly overwatering : your plant would risk going through it. Constant humidity leads to root rot . Your green plant would then no longer have any means of feeding itself. Its leaves would gradually droop until the entire shrub dies...
Is your orchid losing its leaves?
This is probably due to overwatering . Remove the dead foliage and let it dry out. Before a certain point, the situation is salvageable . You can take the pot out of the planter to allow the roots to air out and dry out faster.
Leaves are turning yellow, what should I do?
Yellowing leaves are often a sign of a lack of light or overwatering . Check that the roots are healthy and not starting to rot. If they are healthy, try moving the plant to a different, brighter location.
