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Sphagnum moss is an ideal growing medium for Phalaenopsis orchids. It not only has good air permeability and water retention properties but also provides the necessary nutrients and support for the roots of Phalaenopsis orchids. However, when it comes to watering Phalaenopsis orchids planted in sphagnum moss, special care is needed to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Phalaenopsis orchids prefer a warm and humid environment, but that doesn't mean they require a large amount of water. The roots of Phalaenopsis orchids are typical fleshy roots and are quite sensitive to water requirements. When watering, we should follow the principle of "seeing dry and seeing wet", that is, water only when the surface of the growing medium is slightly dry, and each time we water, we should ensure that the medium is thoroughly moist but there is no waterlogging.
The surface of the sphagnum moss: When the sphagnum moss on the surface of the pot is dry and the surface of the orchid roots attached to the inner wall of the pot is pale and dry, it's time to water, which indicates the appropriate humidity. If the inside is still moist, there is no need to water; if the inside is also dry, then watering is required.
The correct watering methods:
Irrigation method:
Operation: Water directly onto the flower pot, being careful to avoid the stem. Use the dry-wet cycle method for watering. Water 100-200 ml each time to ensure that the sphagnum moss is moist but not overly wet, and the water droplets do not flow directly out from the bottom of the pot.
Precautions: Never pour water into the center of the leaves to avoid rot.
Absorption method:
Operation: Pour a certain amount of water into a container, put the Phalaenopsis orchid together with the sphagnum moss into it, and take it out when the sphagnum moss is half soaked. Let the sphagnum moss absorb water naturally, and do not let it absorb water completely to avoid root rot.
Precautions: The absorption method is suitable for situations where precise control of the water amount is required, and it can avoid waterlogging caused by excessive water.
Pot soaking method:
Operation: Put the entire flower pot into a basin filled with water, making sure that the drainage holes at the bottom of the flower pot are completely submerged in the water. After the water has been absorbed, put the pot back in place to ensure that the sphagnum moss absorbs enough water.
Precautions: The pot soaking method is suitable for situations where the plant hasn't been watered for a long time and the growing medium has good water permeability. After using this method, ventilate it in a timely manner to prevent the sphagnum moss from being too wet and causing root rot.
Adjustment of the watering frequency:
Vigorous growth period: If the "crystal heads" (new root tips) grow quickly, it means that the Phalaenopsis orchid is in a vigorous growth period and needs more watering. Each time you can moisten half of the sphagnum moss or even water it thoroughly to ensure that the roots absorb enough water.
Dormant period: If the "crystal heads" do not grow, it indicates that the plant has entered the dormant period. At this time, water less or do not water at all. Each time, just moisten one-third or even one-fourth of the sphagnum moss to avoid excessive water.
Seasonal changes: Increase the watering frequency in spring and summer, while reduce it in autumn and winter. Pay attention to avoiding overwatering and prolonged drought.
Precautions:
Water quality selection: Use fish tank water or tap water that has been left standing to ensure good water quality.
Ventilation and drying: After watering, ventilate in a timely manner to keep the roots dry and prevent insufficient water absorption by the sphagnum moss or overwatering.
Regular inspection: Regularly inspect and cut off the rotten roots to keep the roots healthy.
Avoid direct sunlight: Avoid direct sunlight on the leaves of the Phalaenopsis orchid to prevent the leaves from being burned.
Through the above methods, we can water Phalaenopsis orchids planted in sphagnum moss correctly and effectively avoid the problem of waterlogging. During the process of caring for Phalaenopsis orchids, we also need to pay attention to regular fertilization and trimming of the withered leaves to provide sufficient nutrients and a clean growing environment for the Phalaenopsis orchids.