Terrified novice! - Orchid Board

Leura Lioness · #1 08-08-2011, 08:14 AM

Just been given my first orchid, I m terrified I will over water it, can anyone give me an idiots guide on how to care for it?

fishmommy · #2 08-08-2011, 08:18 AM

you'll be fine!
the first step is to identify what it is so we can give you proper advice.
Is it a moth orchid (phal)?

Leura Lioness · #3 08-08-2011, 08:22 AM

Not really sure.....white phalaenopsis????

RosieC · #4 08-08-2011, 08:35 AM

Welcome to Orchid Board

It might help to post a picture if you are not sure what it is. See the links in my signature if you need help with that.

If it's a phal then a good place to start for care advise is this thread. http://www.orchidboard.com/community...ends-here.html Lots of good info on Phals has been collected together in there.

My basic tip for not overwatering is based on it being in a clear plastic pot. If that's the case then wait until the roots near the bottom get a silvery tint then water thoroughly, don't leave it standing in water for more than 5-10 min and wait until the roots change back to silvery before repeating again.

If it's not in a clear pot, then you can't tell from just the top roots. In that case a lot of people use a wooden skewer pushed to the bottom. If when you pull it out it's damp then wait a bit longer to water.

Good luck, once you get the knack you'll love them and not be afraid of them. They are wonderful plants.

Paul Mc · #5 08-08-2011, 08:58 AM

Welcome aboard and congratulations on your new orchid. As others have stated, if you can post a picture if you are unsure, that would be really helpful. If you are sure you have a phal, then Rosie's advice is right on track.

The most important things to remember with orchids is that most grow on trees, so don't be scared when your medium gets dry. Aslo, there is a bit of a learning curve when it comes to orchids, but once you get the hang of it, you will love it. All it takes is a willingness to learn, patience to watch it grow and bloom, and a can-do spirit.

WhiteRabbit · #6 08-08-2011, 04:40 PM

glad you found us!

I would follow Rosie's advice for Phals - I was a serial Phal killer until I read, and followed her advice!

Eyebabe · #7 08-08-2011, 06:17 PM

Welcome! The first things I did when I got my initial orchid was to buy another. They get VERY lonely

Seriously, the AOS has culture sheets on their website which are free. You can print it out and that's a good start.