First Orchids, Newbie Questions.

[Emerald27]

When using the skewer method for checking to see when a Phal needs watering, do you keep the skewer in the medium all the time, or only stick it in when you suspect it might be time to water?

Also, I worry that I might stab through a root or something. Is this a concern?

[RandomGemini]

Originally Posted by Emerald27

When using the skewer method for checking to see when a Phal needs watering, do you keep the skewer in the medium all the time, or only stick it in when you suspect it might be time to water?

Also, I worry that I might stab through a root or something. Is this a concern?

Try to put the skewer back in, exactly where it came out. You'll get a feel for putting the skewer in without bothering the roots of the plant.

After a while, you can stop using this method and just judge the weight of the pot. Plants that need to be watered, weigh a lot less than plants that don't.