Orchids are surprisingly easy to keep alive and flourishing, and with the right care, they can thrive for many months or even years as houseplants. However, their sensitivity to fluctuating temperatures can make them somewhat tricky to care for in the UK. Orchids are known for their delicate beauty and ability to purify the air, but they require an environment that mimics their natural habitat to truly thrive.
To achieve this, it’s important to replicate the correct watering practices. Millie Durbak, brand manager at Prestige Flowers, shared some expert advice on how to properly water orchids. She emphasized, “Maintaining a consistent watering schedule and allowing for proper drainage is crucial to avoid root rot.” During the summer, this typically means watering about twice a week, while in the winter, watering should be much less frequent.
To determine if an orchid needs watering, a simple trick is to insert a pencil or chopstick into the soil. If the top two inches are dry, the plant should be watered. However, orchids should not be watered from above, as this can lead to overwatering and damage the plant’s delicate leaves.
Experts at Polhill Garden Centre suggest that most plants, including orchids, benefit from being watered from the bottom. They explained, “Watering plants from above can cause several problems, including plant weakening, reduced flowering, and impaired photosynthesis. It can also lead to conditions like rust, which prevents photosynthesis and appears as brown spots on the underside of leaves, and powdery mildew, which stunts plant growth and appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers.”
To minimize the risk of these infections, it’s essential to water orchids at the right time of day and in the proper manner.
As for the best location to place orchids, Millie recommended the bathroom. “The bathroom provides an ideal environment for orchids due to its higher humidity levels and lower light conditions,” she said. These factors closely resemble the orchid’s natural habitat, creating a perfect balance for healthy growth. Placing orchids in the bathroom not only enhances the room’s aesthetic but also contributes to a fresher, healthier indoor environment.
With correct watering and proper placement, orchids can bloom for extended periods and live for many years.
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