Most commercially available orchids come from subtropical and tropical climate zones and are therefore used to much higher humidity than is usual in our latitudes. In addition, they are usually epiphytes whose roots hang in the air and which cover their water needs with moisture from the air. For this reason alone, there are many special features to consider when watering these delicate beauties - then you can enjoy the distinctive flowers for a long time.
How do you water orchids correctly?
Orchids need filtered or rainwater without high mineral content. They should be watered 1-2 times a week when the substrate is dry. High humidity is important, as is regular misting and drainage in the planter.
Do not water orchids with tap water
This includes, for example, that many orchids react very sensitively to limescale in the irrigation water and should therefore not be watered with tap water. So do not use water freshly tapped from the tap, but first filter it using a commercially available water filter (such as the one sold for making tea) and then leave it overnight. The latter serves to warm the water, because you should never scare your orchids with cold water. The flowers tolerate lukewarm water best. The flower beauties also tolerate a mixture of filtered tap and distilled water well. However, collected rainwater is even better than treated tap water, but it must not be contaminated. Mineral water, on the other hand, is a bad idea due to its high mineral content.
How to water orchids correctly
How often you water your orchids depends on many different factors - such as how much moisture the substrate can absorb, how large the plant and planter are, how warm and dry the location is or what species it is acts. Different types of orchids have very different needs in terms of their water requirements: some orchids must not dry out under any circumstances, while others (especially the popular hybrids such as Phalaenopsis) have no problem with this. In general, however, a watering interval of around once or twice a week is recommended, but depends on the actual needs of the individual plant:
- Water whenever the substrate feels dry on the surface.
- Water the orchids thoroughly.
- Allow excess water to drain off and then empty the planter.
- Ensure high humidity – especially on the windowsill and in winter.
- Mist your orchids regularly.
- Place a bowl of water next to the plant pots.
- Orchids grown without soil should only be sprayed.
- These species should, if possible, be tied up together with moss.
Tip
If you want to ensure the correct water supply for your orchids, you should cultivate them hydroponically with a rather coarse substrate. This also significantly reduces the effort involved in watering.
