Orchids generally should be watered about once every 7 to 10 days during the cooler months and about twice a week in the warmer months or summer. They should not go longer than 2 to 3 weeks without water to avoid dehydration
. Key points on watering orchids:
- Water only enough to moisten the potting medium without making it soggy; about a quarter cup (or three ice cubes) per watering is usually sufficient
- Orchids dislike both overwatering and underwatering. Overwatering can cause root rot and crown rot, while underwatering leads to shriveled leaves
- The watering frequency depends on environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, light exposure, and season. For example, orchids in dry or sunny conditions need more frequent watering
- It’s best to water orchids in the morning to allow leaves to dry during the day and prevent fungal issues
- Check the orchid roots or potting mix to determine when to water: roots turn silvery when dry and green when wet; potting media should feel dry before watering again
- Watering methods include soaking the pot in water for about 10 minutes or running water through the potting medium until it drains freely
In summary, watering orchids once a week in winter and twice a week in summer is a good general guideline, adjusting based on your specific environment and the orchid’s needs. Always ensure the potting mix dries out between waterings to keep your orchid healthy.
