Homemade Orchid Humidity Tray

Serving Trays

• Plastic, ceramic or glass serving trays work well as humidity trays for orchids. Wooden trays can be used as long as they are lined with plastic to prevent leaking. Fill the tray with fish tank gravel, pebbles or small stones. Add water to just below the surface of the gravel. Also, a cap full of bleach added to the water will reduce algae growth. Set your plant container in the center of the tray for maximum moisture absorption.

Dip Trays

• Dip trays that have a center well surrounded by several additional wells for chips or vegetables can be used as a humidity tray. Fill the outer wells with pebbles, marbles or glass beads before adding water. Set the orchid container on the empty center well. Dip trays come in a wide range of colors and styles. Choose one that best fits the decor of the room.

Acrylic Containers

• For a modern look, choose a clear acrylic container, such as a desk drawer divider or vanity tray. Fill the compartments with glass marbles, sea glass or sea shells. Add water and a cap of bleach before setting the orchid container in the tray. If the container is large enough, a candle can be placed in the tray to one side of the orchid for visual appeal.

Candle Holders

• Place your orchid on an upside down glass bowl. Surround it with votive candle holders filled with water. You can even float tea candles in the water. This makes a lovely arrangement in a bathroom or as a table centerpiece.

Cake Stands

• As another option for a tabletop orchid display, choose a cake stand with a lip, or put a glass pie dish on the cake stand. Fill the dish with glass marbles, glass beads, or polished stones. Add water and bleach. Set the orchid in the center.

Baskets and Boxes

• Group several plants together in one container to make a dramatic orchid display. Line a wicker basket or wooden box with plastic. Put small stones or pebbles in the bottom along with water and a cap full of bleach. Set the orchid containers on spice racks or wire locker racks to raise their height above the top of the basket. Spice racks have the added benefit of setting the plants at different levels within the container, preventing overcrowding of the leaves.