How to water a Phalaenopsis orchid
Comprehensive analysis of how to water a Phalaenopsis orchid and related knowledge about the care of green plants and flowers. Next, the editor will provide a detailed answer for you.
How to water a Phalaenopsis orchid? How to add water after it dries out?
The roots of Phalaenopsis orchids and Dendrobium orchids are similar, both being aerial roots. As a epiphytic plant, it mainly adheres to large trees or rocks, and its roots can absorb moisture and nutrients from the air to grow. Therefore, the care method for Phalaenopsis orchids is also special; soil cannot be used, only well-ventilated sphagnum moss or bark.
Good ventilation is required, not too dry or too wet. Water should be added slowly to allow the growing medium to become moist gradually, so the roots can absorb water slowly. The pot should also be very well-ventilated, allowing excess water to evaporate. If the Phalaenopsis orchid is completely dry, it can be soaked in water, then gently squeeze out the excess water from the moss, and let it dry slowly.
Whether the Phalaenopsis orchid grows well and blooms is closely related to watering. Many people have difficulty mastering the watering of Phalaenopsis orchids and often end up with rotten roots. Excessive watering can cause root damage, leading to gradual root rot and plant withering. Insufficient watering and frequent drought can also cause the roots to become hollow and the leaves to turn yellow.
How to water a Phalaenopsis orchid
The condition of the Phalaenopsis orchid's roots is also greatly related to the growing medium. As an epiphytic plant with thick and sturdy roots and a certain degree of drought resistance, it is particularly afraid of waterlogging. Only well-ventilated sphagnum moss or bark can be used as soil. In the humid southern regions, bark can be used since it does not retain moisture well, but the air is quite humid, allowing the Phalaenopsis orchid to grow well.
In the dry northern regions, sphagnum moss with better moisture retention can be used. Squeeze out any excess water after watering, and make sure not to make it too wet. The growing medium only serves as a means to stabilize the plant.
It is best to place the Phalaenopsis orchid near a window with shade or in a place with plenty of diffused light, and often open the window for ventilation, so that excess moisture can easily evaporate. Phalaenopsis orchids are shade-tolerant but should not be kept away from light for too long, or their color will become pale and they will not bloom easily. Strong light can make the leaves wrinkled and prone to sunburn. Strong light can also cause the roots to gradually convert to chlorophyll, turning green.