How to Water & Feed Orchids

Watering Orchids

• 1

  Water orchids in the morning with lukewarm water. These tropical plants have tender roots that can be easily damaged with cold water. The University of Alabama-Birmington Extension recommends watering only on sunny days.

• 2

  Apply the water to the soil and avoid wetting the foliage. If water spills onto the leaves or stems, gently blot it dry with a soft cloth or paper towel.

• 3

  Water the plant until water runs freely through the bottom of the pot. Empty the saucer immediately after watering to avoid soggy soil. Most orchids prefer moist soil, but they do not tolerate soggy soil or standing water around the roots.

• 4

  Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. How often you need to water your orchids depends on the specific cultivar, potting media, air temperature and its growth rate. Orchids typically require more frequent watering during periods of active growth, or at blooming time, and require less water during the winter months.

Fertilizing Orchids

• 5

  Fertilize orchids grown in bark, or other media that contains little or no food value, with a high-nitrogen plant food, such as 30-10-10. This provides the nitrogen your orchid needs to produce healthy foliage and blooms. Follow the recommended dilution rate for orchids, as indicated on the container.

• 6

  Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 18-18-18, to orchids grown in soil. You can find this in the hardware store in either granular or water-soluble solutions.

• 7

  Use fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength for weekly feedings or apply at the recommended strength once a month during active growth. Reduce or discontinue fertilizing during the winter to give the plant a rest. Resume fertilizer application in the spring when new growth appears.