You should water your orchid approximately once every 7 to 10 days, or when the growing medium (such as moss or bark) feels dry to the touch. Orchids do not like to stay constantly moist, as too much water can cause root rot and other issues. Instead, allow the medium to dry out somewhat between waterings. Checking the roots can also help: dry roots appear silvery or gray, while hydrated roots look bright green
. Factors that influence how often you should water include:
- Light: More light usually means more frequent watering.
- Temperature: Warmer conditions increase water needs.
- Humidity: Drier air requires more watering.
- Time of year: Orchids often need less water in winter when resting
A common practice is to soak the orchid in water or thoroughly water it once a week, but if the medium still feels moist, you can wait a few days longer before watering again
. Using ice cubes (about three per 5-6 inch pot) once a week is also a method to provide measured watering without overdoing it
. Signs your orchid needs water include wrinkled or crinkled leaves and dry roots, but be cautious not to overwater, as this is the most common cause of orchid problems
