TheNaturePlanet

In indoor flower cultivation, Phalaenopsis orchids are highly favored for their elegant flower postures and gorgeous colors. To make Phalaenopsis orchids bloom abundantly and have a long flowering period, the watering process is of great importance. There is a lot of knowledge about what kind of water to use for watering and how to water.
Suitable water for Phalaenopsis orchids:
Rainwater: Rainwater is natural soft water, with a pH close to neutral, and it contains rich trace elements such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which are all nutrients required for the growth of Phalaenopsis orchids. Watering Phalaenopsis orchids with rainwater allows the plants to better absorb water and nutrients, promotes the healthy growth of the roots, and makes the leaves green and the flowers delicate and beautiful. When collecting rainwater, pay attention to choosing a clean container to avoid pollution. However, in some cities with relatively serious pollution, rainwater may contain harmful substances and is not very suitable for directly watering flowers.
Purified water: Purified water contains almost no impurities and minerals, and its pH is stable, so it will not impose a burden on the roots of Phalaenopsis orchids. Especially for Phalaenopsis orchids that are sensitive to water quality, purified water is a relatively ideal choice. However, watering flowers with purified water for a long time may lead to a lack of certain trace elements in the plants. Special flower nutrient solutions can be added regularly to supplement nutrients.
Treated tap water: Tap water is the most easily accessible water source, but it contains disinfectants such as chlorine, and using it directly will be harmful to Phalaenopsis orchids. Therefore, the tap water needs to be left standing for 2 - 3 days to let the chlorine gas in it volatilize before use. Or use the method of exposing it to the sun to shorten the standing time. The tap water treated in this way can then be used to water Phalaenopsis orchids.
Watering techniques to promote a long flowering period:
The principle of "watering when dry and seeing through when watering": Phalaenopsis orchids are epiphytic plants, and their roots have special requirements for water. Before watering, you can insert your finger 2 - 3 centimeters into the planting medium (such as sphagnum moss, bark, etc.). If the planting medium feels dry, you can water. When watering, water thoroughly so that the water fully penetrates into the planting medium until water flows out from the bottom of the pot. But avoid waterlogging, otherwise, it is likely to cause root rot, affecting the growth and blooming of the plants.
Adjust according to the seasons: In spring and autumn, Phalaenopsis orchids grow vigorously and have a greater demand for water, generally watering 2 - 3 times a week. In summer, the temperature is high and the water evaporates quickly. You can water once in the evening every day. At the same time, spray water around the plants to increase air humidity and lower the temperature. In winter, Phalaenopsis orchids grow slowly and enter a semi-dormant state. The watering frequency should be reduced, and watering once every 7 - 10 days is sufficient. Choose to water at noon when it is warm to avoid the low water temperature from stimulating the roots.
Watering method: Watering by the pot soaking method is more beneficial to Phalaenopsis orchids. Put the Phalaenopsis orchid pot together into a container with an appropriate amount of water, and let the water slowly penetrate from the bottom of the pot into the planting medium to make the planting medium evenly moist. This method can avoid directly watering and washing away the planting medium and damaging the roots, and helps the roots of Phalaenopsis orchids better absorb water, thus providing sufficient water guarantee for the plants to bloom and prolonging the flowering period.
Choosing the right water and mastering the correct watering method are the keys to growing Phalaenopsis orchids well and prolonging their flowering period. Only by taking good care and meeting the water requirements of Phalaenopsis orchids can they bloom more durably indoors.