| Quick Tip: Humidity for Orchids |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-304 |
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If you're an orchid-lover, you're not alone: these exotic beauties are a favorite of many. To ensure that an orchid thrives in your home, you'll need to make sure it's in an area that offers sufficient humidity; if your home is dry, an orchid may not do well. But don't let low humidity levels keep you from enjoying the splendor of your very own orchid -- just follow this easy advice from horticulturist Jessie Mack Burns: - Find a shallow tray or drainage dish slightly larger than the orchid's pot.
- Fill the dish with small stones and add water until it just reaches the surface of the stones.
- Then sit the potted orchid on top of the stones. This will provide the orchid with humidity, not water.
- Place the tray and plant in a bright area, but out of direct sunlight.
- Mist the plant daily, which will allow it to take water in through its leaves.
- Purchase specially formulated orchid fertilizer and use as directed on the package.
- If your orchid is planted in a small pot, you'll need to water it about twice a week; watering once a week is generally sufficient for orchids in larger pots.
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