Watering by Icecube?

[Ducky87]

At the local department store they have "Icecube Orchids", claiming that placing 3 icecubes on the bark of the plant once a week will keep it watered. Is this really a safe way to water an Orchid? To me this would lower the temp around the plant and the cold would be unsafe for the roots? Am I wrong to think this?

[BobInBonita]

The "Just add Ice" gimmick has been around a long time. It works because any damage done by the temperature is less than the damage done by over-watering. Overwatering is probably the cause of more questions,, and problems on the forum than everything else combined. If new growers could be as disciplined to measure 3 icecubes worth of water, they would do even better, but at least they don't drown the plant. If I remember correctly, the directions vary - when they're planted in sphagnum, its one ice cube per week. Now in bark its three.

[RosieC]

There are some folks arround here who have done OK with this method, but it's not generally advised because the water will be too cold. I find my orchids do best if I use luke warm water.

From what I've heard (we don't get them over in the UK) the 'Just Add Ice' brand has good orchids, it's just the method that's not the best. I know people here on OB have bought them then cared for them in a standard fashion.

I assume the idea is to help measure the water to stop overwatering and rot and that may work for some people. Personally I find that watering with LOTS of water then ensuring it dries fully within 7-10 days and watering again when it's dry works well and gives plenty of water to the plant.

[Angurek]

If you want to run the risk of shocking your plant and damaging it then yeah, you can water by ice cube. If not, I'd recommend watering with lukewarm water (and making sure the plant gets a good soaking). If it's small enough to fit in the kitchen sink, water it there. If not, do so in the bathtub, or outside with a hose.

In my opinion, there's no substitute for normal watering. An ice cube will usually not provide enough water to keep the plant happy (this is especially true for water-lovers like Vandas). And, as aforementioned, there's always the risk of damaging the plant.

Whoever came up with and marketed this method probably had little time to dedicate to their plants. Orchid-growing is a hobby of dedication; you have to put time into your plants to see results.

[Call_Me_Bob]

the 'just add ice' orchids are not typically potted in bark. which is commendable. but i dont recommend following the ice cube instructions. i feel it will shock the roots.with luke warm water, i have found, that they respond better

[Daethen]

I have 5 of these and all are doing well with the regular watering that all the rest of my orchids get. It's a gimmick and isn't necessary. It sounds like you already knew that.