How to Best Care for Aquatic Orchids
Here is some knowledge about caring for aquatic orchids, including the best practices, methods, and precautions for growing green plants, as follows:
Also known as the "New Year Orchid," Mo Lan is an orchid species native to the ground, often found in forests, shrublands, and moist yet well-drained, shaded ravines at altitudes of 300 to 2,000 meters. There are two methods of cultivating Mo Lan: hydroponics and soil cultivation. In the process of hydroponic cultivation, it is necessary to manage light, temperature, and humidity, and to fertilize appropriately according to the plant's growth state. It is also important to pay attention to the quality of the water and to prune decayed roots and yellow leaves.
1. Cultivation Methods
1. Light
Mo Lan prefers shade and dislikes strong light. During the summer and autumn seasons when sunlight is too intense, it can be placed in an area with scattered light inside the house to avoid scorching the plant and causing yellowing of the leaves. In spring and winter, when the sun is gentle and indoor lighting is weaker, it can be placed outside during warm midday to receive light, to prevent slow growth due to insufficient light.
2. Temperature
Mo Lan prefers warmth and dislikes severe cold. It grows best at temperatures between 18 to 28°C. The plant can grow well in spring and autumn, but in summer, high temperatures often exceed 30°C, which is not conducive to the plant's growth. It should be placed in a cool place during high temperatures, and water should be sprayed on the plant and its surroundings to cool down. In winter, when the climate is cold, Mo Lan should be placed in a warm indoor area to prevent frost damage when temperatures drop below 5°C. In homes with heating, Mo Lan should be placed away from heating devices to avoid being burned by the warmth.
3. Humidity
Mo Lan prefers a high-humidity environment, with a relative humidity of 55 to 75% during the day and not less than 80% at night being most suitable for its growth. During dry weather, a basin of water can be placed next to Mo Lan, and water can be sprayed on the plant and the ground to increase humidity. If conditions allow, a humidifier can also be used.
4. Fertilization
Hydroponically cultivated Mo Lan absorbs less nutrition compared to soil cultivation. To promote better growth, fertilization can be applied. Fertilizing is usually done on sunny afternoons when the temperature is between 18 to 25°C. During the growing season, organic or inorganic fertilizers are applied every 7 days, and in autumn and winter, every 20 days. After fertilizing, the leaves should be washed with clean water to prevent fertilizer from staining them.
2. Precautions
1. Water Quality
Hydroponic Mo Lan has high requirements for water quality. Snow and rainwater are best. If tap water is used, it must be filtered and then placed in the sun for a day before use. To maintain clean water quality, the water should be changed every 7 days.
2. Pruning
If the roots of Mo Lan rot, they should be cut off promptly and soaked in a potassium permanganate solution for 5 minutes to disinfect. After soaking, they should be placed back in the hydroponic container. If a large area of the leaves turns yellow, the yellow leaves should be cut off, the cut ends treated with carbendazim, and the cause of yellowing identified and addressed.
The above introduction to the best way to care for aquatic orchids and the methods and precautions for their care may bring some floral knowledge to orchid enthusiasts.