TheNaturePlanet

In the selection of cultivation substrates for Phalaenopsis orchids, bark has become the first choice for many flower lovers due to its good air permeability and water - retention capacity. However, when it comes to planting Phalaenopsis orchids in bark, many people have difficulty in grasping the watering frequency and method. Over - watering can easily lead to root rot, while under - watering can result in water shortage. Therefore, accurately mastering the watering skills is the key to growing Phalaenopsis orchids well.

When Phalaenopsis orchids are planted in bark, the watering frequency is affected by various factors. Firstly, the environmental temperature plays a role. Within the suitable growth temperature range of 15℃ - 25℃, the metabolism of Phalaenopsis orchids is active and the water consumption is fast. Generally, it is appropriate to water once every 5 - 7 days. When the temperature exceeds 28℃, the transpiration of the plant intensifies and the water loss rate significantly accelerates. It may be necessary to water once every 3 - 5 days. When the temperature is lower than 15℃, the growth of Phalaenopsis orchids slows down and the demand for water decreases. The watering interval can be extended to once every 10 - 15 days.

Secondly, air humidity also plays an important role. In an environment with high air humidity, such as when the humidity reaches 70% - 80%, the drying speed of the bark is slow, and the watering interval can be appropriately extended. If the air humidity is long - term lower than 50%, the water in the bark will evaporate quickly, and the watering cycle needs to be shortened. In addition, the material and size of the flowerpot, the growth state of the plant, and the type and age of the bark will all affect the watering frequency. For example, terracotta pots have good air permeability and fast water loss, so the watering frequency should be higher than that of plastic pots. The bark in large pots dries relatively slowly, and the watering interval should be longer than that in small pots. Phalaenopsis orchids in the flowering period or growth stage have a greater demand for water and need to be watered more frequently. New bark has better water - retention capacity, and the initial watering frequency can be slightly lower. As the use time of the bark increases, the water - retention capacity decreases, and the number of watering needs to be appropriately increased.

Having mastered the watering frequency, the correct watering method should not be overlooked. When watering Phalaenopsis orchids planted in bark, the principle of "thorough watering" should be followed. The pot - soaking method can be adopted. Prepare a container slightly larger than the flowerpot, fill it with an appropriate amount of clean water, and place the flowerpot with the Phalaenopsis orchid in it, allowing the bark to slowly absorb water from the bottom. Generally, soak for 15 - 20 minutes. After seeing that the surface of the bark is completely wet and the aerial roots are saturated with water and appear bright green, take out the flowerpot and drain the excess water. This method can ensure that the inside of the bark is fully moist and avoid the problem of "half - watering" that leads to water shortage in the upper part of the roots.

The watering - with - a - watering - can method can also be used. Slowly spray water on the surface of the bark and the roots of the plant, watering around the edge of the flowerpot in circles to let the water gradually penetrate into the deep part of the bark. During the watering process, pay attention to controlling the water flow speed to avoid the water flow being too fast and washing away the bark or damaging the roots. After watering, check in a timely manner whether there is water flowing out from the bottom of the pot. If not, it indicates that there may be problems such as bark compaction, and it is necessary to adjust the watering method or replace some of the bark.

In addition to daily watering, the water quality also needs attention. Phalaenopsis orchids prefer slightly acidic water. Rainwater and tap water that has been left standing for 2 - 3 days are more suitable. Avoid using water with high salt content or strong alkalinity, otherwise it is easy to cause salinization of the bark and affect the growth of the roots. In addition, the watering time also matters. In summer, it is advisable to water in the morning or evening to avoid the high - temperature period at noon and prevent the large temperature difference between the water temperature and the soil temperature from irritating the roots. In winter, water at noon when the temperature is higher to reduce the damage of low temperature to the plant.

When planting Phalaenopsis orchids in bark, the watering frequency and method need to be flexibly adjusted by considering various factors. Only by fully understanding the needs of the plant and scientifically watering in combination with the environmental conditions can the roots of Phalaenopsis orchids grow healthily in the bark substrate.