How Much Water Do You Give to a Firebird Orchid in a 6-Inch Pot?

Pot

• Phalaenopsis and Firebird orchids grow tall flower stalks and stacks of blooms, with sparse foliage at the base. These orchids become top heavy over time with this growth. Keep them in heavy 6- to 10-inch pots with drainage holes to give them balance and consistent, quick drainage.

Potting Soil

• Firebird orchids do best in dry, airy foundations with good drainage. Their roots need both air and room, and will rot in tight conditions or standing water. Use peat moss, fern matter, orchid potting mix, vermiculite, gravel or wood chips for Firebird orchids to keep their roots healthy. Organic potting soils, like fern matter and peat moss, make it easier to judge when it's time to water.

Watering

• Water Firebird orchids only when the potting medium dries. Stick your finger into the medium seven to 10 days after the last watering to judge drying. If the medium feels dry, give the orchid 1 to 2 inches of water. Don't get the water on the foliage or flower stalks as they'll rot.

Fertilizer

• Add water-soluble fertilizer, when you water, every two to three weeks to feed the orchids. Mix 3-1-1, 1-3-1 or 1-1-1 fertilizer at one-half to one-quarter the recommended rate to dilute it. Use this mixture for watering the orchid at least once a month. Orchids don't get the nutrition they need from their potting media and will fail without adequate fertilizer additions.