AboutOrchids

It’s important to let orchids dry between waterings. Roots and potting material need time to dry out. This period helps prevent roots from rotting or developing disease. Cattleyas and Oncidiums need to dry well, since damp conditions can kill them. Moth Orchids, Masdevallias, and Lady Slippers want to dry just a little, and need water more frequently.

All plants dry faster in warm weather, and therefore need more frequent waterings. Consequently, they need less in cool weather. Strong winds can also dry plants quickly.

An easy way to check for dryness is to stick your finger into the bark or moss. Underneath the potting material, it’s easy to feel if it’s still wet. Since water adds weight, many growers learn to feel the difference between a dry plant and a wet plant. When the orchid is a little easier to lift, it’s ready for water.

Find more helpful orchid watering tips here.

Explore posts in the same categories: Growing, Watering

This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 7th, 2014 at 9:25 pm and is filed under Growing, Watering.

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