What is the best way to water orchids planted in bark?
 

Hi everyone. I've re potted my mini phals in bark instead of sphagnum moss. Is it better to water them from the top or to set the pot in water and let it soak up from the bottom?

I'd think you might probably have better luck watering from the top, since bark doesn't have the capillary action of moss, meaning it probably wouldn't draw water right up into the pot like moss might. Just be careful not to let any water sit in the crowns of the plants - that can cause root rot. Good luck! ;)

If I'm in a hurry (my job totally gets in the way of my orchid care ;-)) then I will just water from the top. If I have the time, my preferred way is to soak the pot so the roots get a few minutes to absorb and fully turn green. I think this mimics the way they get drenched in the tropical rainforest rains. At least, more so than a quick drizzle from the top.

I also find I am able to mix up less fertilizer. I usually leave the plant in its decorative ceramic pot and just fill the whole thing up with water, while sat in the bath. After 5-10 mins, I take the plant and inner plastic pot out and allow it to drain and turn the ceramic pot upside down. After a while, I take the plants back to the light. I can do a few at a time this way. If I have the time, I will check the pots again later to ensure that no further water has drained through and become trapped in the outer pot.

I think you mean crown rot, right? I learned the hard way about keeping those crowns dry! I also water from the top but then take a paper towel or napkin and soak up the moisture in the crowns.

Oops, yep - crown rot. That's what happens when you try to write an intelligent response before the first cup of coffee. :biggrin:

:rofl: :rofl:

Thanks! I'm also confused about fertilizer. I've heard and read a lot of different things...don't fertilize when the plant is flowering....fertilize weakly, weekly...fertilize once a month...every few weeks...

I don't know what to think. Any suggestions. ...Of course I'm sure I'll get a few different answers here too! :)

whatever you do, do it before noon.....water from the top and soak em good!

I've weighed my orchids after watering by both methods. After soaking 15 minutes, my 4-inch orchids potted in bark absorbed about 75 gm of water. When watered from the top they only absorbed about 60 to 65 gm of water.

I don't know if either method is superior, but I find the end result interesting.