Questions about watering and feeding - Orchid Board

erebor · #1 08-23-2009, 02:04 PM

So, I got an orchid (identified as a Miltassia C.M. Fitch "Izumi" by WhiteRabbit and AG, thanks again, guys!) and it's coming up on three to four weeks that I've managed not to kill him! I was just wondering (brace yourselves for the stupidity) how to water him. So far, I've been misting the roots in the mornings (because I've read on the boards that this type doesn't like having its leaves misted) and thoroughly wetting both the air roots and the material (lava rocks?) in the pot once a week. (It's summer here, about 70-80 during the day, down to upper 50s, 60s at night, and it's about 50% humidity.) I do this by setting the plant in the sink and pouring lukewarm water onto the roots and into the pot, then allowing the pot to drain before returning it to its saucer. The roots turn green and flexible when the plant is wet. In between waterings (and before mistings) however, the roots are white, dry, and very brittle-- and they reach this state within hours of having been watered! I am afraid to water him more frequently (the horror stories about root rot and infections have done the trick) but brittle, dry roots are a new phenomenon to me as an orchid beginner. Is this normal? Should I water more often?

I have a second question about feeding him. I bought some water-soluble orchid food (Schultz, 19-31-17) and I have followed the directions on the package as to dosing, but how do I administer it? If I simply water him with the Schultz-laced water, it seems like a lot of it is wasted/never gets to the plant. How do you feed your orchids?

Thanks!