Ice cubes: The secret to thriving orchids in our homes
Watering orchids requires precision. Both over-watering and under-watering can damage the flowers. One tried-and-true method is using ice cubes for watering.
10 November 2024 20:27
Orchids are popular in our homes due to their charm and beautiful appearance. They make excellent decorations for windowsills and can also serve as delightful gifts. Although they are not particularly demanding, their care, especially watering, requires experience. The key issue is avoiding over- and under-watering, which weakens the plant's ability to bloom.
How not to overwater an orchid?
Before watering, it's worth closely examining the roots of the orchids. A green and firm appearance suggests that the plant has enough water. On the other hand, a silvery sheen is a sign of slight dehydration. Over-watering is evidenced by dark, slippery roots, which signal that water has been sitting too long in the pot, potentially harming the roots.
Three ice cubes are enough
One effective way to control the amount of water is by using ice cubes for watering. As the ice cubes melt, the orchid gradually absorbs the water, preventing excess moisture from accumulating at the bottom of the pot. This way, the roots don't have to sit in water, promoting their health. Placing three ice cubes in the pot once a week is enough to cool the substrate and may stimulate the plant's blooming.
The ice cube method is an alternative to moving orchids to cooler places. It also helps solve problems with selecting the appropriate amount of water, which is beneficial for the growth and blooming of the flowers. During such changes in care, the plant should be monitored so that if any concerning signs appear, one can revert to traditional watering.