First-time orchid growers: avoid these four major mistakes

Do not use a large pot for a small plant

The downside of using too large a pot is that a big pot holds more growing medium; if you water too little, the outside is wet but the inside stays dry, and the roots cannot get water. If you water too much, the outside dries but the inside stays wet, and the medium easily rots, and the roots rot along with it. You may think that filling in more medium means more nutrients, but that is wrong!

Do not use excessive fertilizer

Fertilizer can promote the growth, strengthening, and blooming of orchid plants, but do not assume that once you apply fertilizer it will produce results exactly as you intend. The effectiveness of fertilizer depends on other conditions and must be used in the right amount. In short, use fertilizer on the dilute side, otherwise ask someone experienced for guidance. Many beginners overdose on fertilizer and kill the plant from fertilizer burn.

Do not be too fond of watering

Beginners are eager for their flowers to grow and want to water as soon as they see the plant, fearing there is not enough water for the orchid to take in. I know this comes from love, but it is wrong; it only needs a moderate amount of water, and sometimes it also needs a dry spell. If you think you have given enough water but the leaves show signs of dehydration, then: 1. the roots are damaged. 2. it is exposed to too much wind (wind-dried), meaning the air humidity is insufficient. Many beginners kill the plant from water damage.

Do not plant it too deep

Planting the flower too deep is also a common problem among beginners, who think that only by burying the crown in the growing medium can it absorb nutrients. (Some also plant it deeper because it is unstable, so the plant can stand upright.) Both are wrong; the crown of the orchid plant should be exposed at the pot surface, to avoid stuffiness and rot as well as wet rot of new shoots. If a newly potted orchid plant cannot stand steadily, it should be secured with string or a support.

The four taboos above are all mistaken ideas that arise from beginners loving orchids too much. You must not follow along and make the same mistakes!