How to humidify Phalaenopsis orchids in the north? Practical ways to maintain indoor humidity

For gardening friends in the north growing Phalaenopsis orchids, the biggest headache is probably the humidity problem - clearly light and watering are done according to tutorials, yet the orchid leaves are still dry and shriveled, and may even have root rot. In the end, it is simply that the air is too dry! Phalaenopsis orchids are native to tropical forests and are used to60%-80%humid environments. In our north, once the winter heating is turned on, humidity often drops below30%

The simplest basic operation is that the water tray method must be put in place. Find a shallow dish one size larger than the flower pot, spread a layer of pebbles or expanded clay pellets inside, pour in clean water, and be careful that the water does not cover the stones, then place the Phalaenopsis orchid pot on top. In this way, when the water evaporates, it will slowly moisten the surrounding air. It will not let the bottom of the flower pot sit in water and cause root rot, and it can also create a small humid zone around the orchid plant.

If you have many Phalaenopsis orchids at home, or want to save some effort, a humidifier is a"lazy person's magic tool," but you need to pay attention to details when using it. Do not point the humidifier directly at the orchids, otherwise the leaves will constantly be exposed to water vapor and are prone to mold; it is best to place the humidifier about30cm away from the flower pot, set it to a low mist level, and let the mist slowly spread. In addition, the water in the humidifier should be changed frequently. Do not add tap water directly. Sun-exposed water or purified water is better, so that scale in the water does not drift onto the leaves and affect respiration. I was lazy before and did not change the water for a week. As a result, a little green moss grew in the humidifier and almost fumigated the orchids. Later, I changed the water once a week and never had a problem again.

There is also a simple homemade method that is especially useful, which is misting the Phalaenopsis orchids, but you must choose the right time and method. Misting at around9in the morning is best. At this time, the temperature gradually rises, and after misting, the leaves can dry in time and will not retain water and rot the crown; never mist at night. At night the temperature is low, water vapor hangs on the leaves, and the next day you will definitely see rotten spots. When misting, focus on the back of the leaves and the surrounding air. Do not spray the petals and leaf crown. Petals that get wet easily wither, and water accumulating in the leaf crown will rot the stem. I generally use a small spray bottle, add a little cooled boiled water, spray two or three times each time, and the leaves immediately look fresh and lively.

Finally, here is another small tip: place the Phalaenopsis orchids together with other humidity-loving plants, such as pothos and Monstera deliciosa. Their transpiration can help each other and raise the humidity of the small environment by another notch. However, be careful not to crowd them too densely. Leave enough space for ventilation, otherwise once humidity rises and ventilation is poor, bacteria are more likely to grow.

When growing Phalaenopsis orchids in the north, humidifying does not need to be too complicated. Remember"do not let them dry out, do not let them get waterlogged, and do not let them be stuffy." Slowly figure out your own environment, and the orchids will surely grow lush and green, blooming one flush after another!