How to Care for a Hydroponic Phalaenopsis Orchid

Plant your phalaenopsis orchid in a hydroponic system in spring or early summer unless it is currently in bloom. Planting later in the season is also acceptable.

Remove your orchid from its current pot and rinse off all potting medium, such as moss or bark. Try to avoid breaking or injuring the roots as best you can; if you harm any, cut them off. Also, trim all roots that are not plump and light in color.

Soak an appropriate quantity of pebbles in water for several hours or overnight. Include a rooting hormone product, following label instructions for the correct amount to mix with the amount of water you need to cover your pebbles.

Fill a hydroponic culture pot about one-quarter full with pebbles. Then place your orchid on top and distribute the roots evenly around the base of the plant. Hold your plant in place and next add enough pebbles to fill the pot. Then press the pebbles down to provide security for the orchid.

Insert a water gauge into the side of the pot.

Keep your phalaenopsis in a hydroponic grow tray in bright indirect light and water it with a hydroponic nutrient solution included in the water when the gauge is empty. When you water, add enough to fill the gauge one-quarter to one-half full.