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I got an orchid however I have killed many any tips | The Orchid Oasis | Planta community

Jimmy

I got an orchid however I have killed many any tips

3 likes 9 comments

9 comments

  1. Doris

    I just got one myself and am here for tips too ! Someone told me to water it with ice cubes

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    • Jen

      Please don’t water with ice cubes. Almost all orchid species come from tropical climates. I know our grocery store plants are hybridized to provide the best possible outcomes for home growers- but there is nothing in their genetic make up that makes them tolerant to freezing temps. I know ‘it works’ for some people, but you can absolutely damage roots with ice cubes, and jeopardize the long term health of your orchid- ultimately why would you want to take that risk?

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  2. JW

    Yes but be careful. Be sure there is moss or something separating the ice from the soil and any leaves of the orchid. Blooms should be removed with scissors as soon as they are spent, but be sure to let the flower stalk dry off on its own as it will help with photosynthesis, and after a month or two it will either wither or bloom again. If it withers it usually sends up another flower stalk in 6-12 months.

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  3. Jimmy

    Ok

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  4. Jimmy

    Also what do I do if my orchid is in straight moss

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    • Laura B

      Moss is fine but make sure it’s completely dry before watering again or it can cause root rot. I recommend gently poking through the moss with a wooden skewer to determine the moisture level. Orchids can tolerate being dry so it’s better to err on the side of dryness than overwatering.

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  5. Bella

    I have an orchid that’s thriving. I’m shocked! I have it in a well lit area and it gets a lamp that I believe acts as a grow light. I have 3 new shoots. I also have it on a watering schedule.

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  6. Jimmy

    Ok

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  7. Laura B

    I’ve had success with orchids by using bark medium in a clear pot with lots of holes and keeping them in bright indirect light, though they do love a couple of hours of direct sun. They LOVE airflow so moss is fine but I find more success with bark because they can torte being dry for a couple days. I submerge the roots in lukewarm water once a week for 5 minutes, and fertilize once a month with high quality liquid orchid food. Never ever use ice cubes. First, it’s a tropical plant, and second, it’s not enough water. Otherwise, they’re easy to care for when you have watering and light down.

    1 like