How to water a Phalaenopsis orchid? The correct soaking time and frequency

Experienced growers all know that the hardest part of keeping plants is watering. Although this seems like a simple issue, doing it wrong can easily cause irreversible "root rot," and the Phalaenopsis orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.) is the prime example. Many people just water it as a matter of course, paying no attention to the plant's condition, and in the end it drowns, dies of drought, or dies of root rot -- all kinds of outcomes happen.

Plant lovers have probably all heard the saying "water thoroughly once the soil is bone dry," but when it comes to actually doing it, quite a few people run into trouble, because when the soil is completely dry, lots of gaps appear. If you dump water in all at once, the pressure is high and the water runs straight down through the gaps. It looks thoroughly watered on the surface, but the soil inside is still bone dry. So how should you water correctly?

First, there is what is called the "slow watering method," and the key is the word "slow." When doing it, first slowly pour a ring of water around the edge of the pot, as if drawing a circle of water around the pot. Wait until the soil is slightly moist and has absorbed the water, then pour a second ring. At this point you must not rush; wait a few extra minutes to let the water seep down fully, then pour a third ring. Repeat this action four or five times, until water starts dripping from the bottom of the pot -- only then is it thoroughly watered.

Second, there is another method called the "tray watering method," which is especially suitable for lazy people. Find a fairly deep tray, set the pot in it, pour water directly into the tray, and give all the potted plants a communal "bath." Once the potting soil has "drunk up" the water in the tray, add a second round and a third round. This action usually only needs to be repeated two or three times for the soil to absorb its fill of water, and then you just place the pot in a ventilated spot.

Finally, there is the "soaking method," which is suitable for plants that are grown strong and free of problems. Prepare a large basin, fill it with water 10 cm deep, roughly half the height of the pot, then gently set the pot in for a "bath." Soak for about 20 minutes, then take it out and let the excess water drain away.

As the saying goes, "watering takes ten years of skill," but it is actually not that hard. As long as growers follow these methods and adjust flexibly according to their own plants' habits, they should be able to solve quite a few cases of plants going bad.