Moth orchids: Expert explains the meaning behind name
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Watering houseplants is extremely important all year round in order to keep them alive. However, their needs change during the winter, requiring less watering. This can confuse many, with overwatering being one of the biggest problems when it comes to owning indoor plants. One trend circulating saw ice cubes being used to water orchids and one expert has said this “controversial topic” can be harmful towards orchids.
Natalie Devereux, product specialist at Serenata Flowers, told Express.co.uk: “Watering orchids with ice cubes is a controversial topic amongst growers.
“People for this method believe that it simplifies the watering routine, making it easier for beginners and prevent watering.
“But, plants, much like humans, have different watering needs depending on external factors.
“We always recommended you use your senses and instinct rather than a method or routine.”
If a room is warmer than others in the home, the orchid may need watering more often.
It may also need different watering needs depending on the season as well as if it is regularly missed or not.
The expert added: “We also suggest that you use room temperature when watering most plants as water too cold can shock the roots, so this too is a risk with using ice cubes.”
Ice cube watering can also kill orchid tissue on the leaf and stunt growth over time.
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Overwatering is one of the main problems when it comes to looking after houseplants.
Too much water can cause an orchid to rot but not enough can cause it to be limp.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, founder of Beards and Daisies, Jo Lambell, shared top tips on how to care for orchid plants.
Jo said: “Orchids are one of the oldest families of flowering plants going – and they’re still as popular today as they always have been.
“A key part of this plant’s care is humidity – regular misting is a must, just avoid misting the flowers directly.”
Misting is simply spraying an orchid with a fine mist spray bottle.
Orchids need extra care during the winter months and must be placed away from both heat sources and drafts.
Jo added: “Keep away from dry heat vents and drafts too as this will dry out your orchid.
“A kitchen or bathroom is a good location for this plant for humidity reasons, just ensure it has bright, indirect light.
“Too little light will result in an orchid that does not flower.
“As for watering, the orchid will require weekly watering, but it is very important to not overwater this plant as the roots can rot.
“Only water if the top layer of soil is dry to touch or if the pot it is in feels light.
“Do not let soil get soggy and make sure not to water directly onto the leaves.”
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