TheNaturePlanet

To make the Phalaenopsis at home thrive and keep blooming, correct watering techniques are of vital importance. The following provides a detailed answer to the two key questions: "In what situations should Phalaenopsis not be watered?" and "How to water Phalaenopsis to prevent root rot?" This will help you become an expert in Phalaenopsis maintenance.
Situations where Phalaenopsis should not be watered
Adaptation period after newly acquired: When a newly purchased Phalaenopsis is adapting to its new environment, watering should be done with great caution. For a Phalaenopsis that has just been placed in a new environment, its roots have not yet stabilized, and overwatering is likely to cause root rot. Therefore, within the first week after it is newly acquired, unless the sphagnum moss at the bottom is completely dry, it should be kept dry to allow the plant to adjust on its own.
The medium is still wet: By observing the color of the sphagnum moss and the roots, you can determine whether the Phalaenopsis needs watering. If the sphagnum moss is wet and the roots are green, it indicates that there is still sufficient moisture in the medium, and there is no need to water at this time. Overwatering will cause the roots to remain in a wet state for a long time, increasing the risk of root rot.
Low-temperature environment: In winter, the temperature is relatively low, and Phalaenopsis grows slowly or even stops growing. At this time, water control should be strictly implemented. The watering frequency should be significantly reduced, and usually, watering once every 2-3 weeks is sufficient. When watering in winter, it is best to do it at noon to avoid the roots being stimulated by cold water.
Methods to water Phalaenopsis without causing root rot
Determine the right time to water: Mastering the correct timing of watering is the key to preventing root rot. When you observe that the sphagnum moss and roots turn white, the medium is relatively dry, and the flower pot becomes lighter, this is the best time to water. Watering at this time can ensure that the roots fully absorb the water, and root rot will not occur due to the overly wet medium.
Adopt appropriate watering methods:
Pouring method: Use a narrow-spout watering can to slowly pour water, avoiding the stem. Water about 100-200 ml each time to ensure that the water evenly penetrates deep into the medium. At the same time, avoid watering the center of the leaves to prevent water accumulation and rot.
Absorption method: Place the flower pot of Phalaenopsis in a container filled with water, and let the sphagnum moss absorb water naturally. Note that once half of the sphagnum moss is soaked, take it out to prevent root rot. This method is suitable for situations where the medium has good water permeability and is extremely short of water.
Pot soaking method: Completely immerse the flower pot in water, with the water level as deep as the planting medium. Take it out quickly after the medium has fully absorbed the water. This method also requires avoiding soaking the stems and leaves to prevent root rot caused by excessive water.
Pay attention to the water quality and water temperature: Phalaenopsis has high requirements for water quality. It is recommended to use purified water, fish tank water, or tap water that has been left standing for 24 hours for watering. Using tap water directly may harm the plant due to the presence of chemical substances such as chlorine. At the same time, when watering, ensure that the water temperature is consistent with the indoor temperature to avoid the roots being stimulated by cold water.
Maintain good ventilation and appropriate lighting: Good ventilation and appropriate lighting are important conditions for the healthy growth of Phalaenopsis. Place the Phalaenopsis in a place with good ventilation and sufficient diffused light, which helps to reduce the occurrence of pests and diseases and promotes the plant's photosynthesis and nutrient absorption.
By mastering the above watering techniques, you can effectively avoid the problem of root rot in Phalaenopsis and make the Phalaenopsis at home bloom more gorgeously. Remember to water moderately and at the right time, and pay attention to observing the growth status of the plant, adjusting the watering frequency and method flexibly.