The beautiful variations, colors, and sizes of the orchid species have inspired many homeowners to take on orchid growing as a hobby. However, many "newly acquainted" orchid growers fail miserably when it comes to watering their orchid. It is important to know that orchids require a very particular watering schedule. The orchid's indigenous climate is tropical and thus very humid. Although our homes are not necessarily "tropical," there are some things that can be done to recreate the orchid's natural habitat. First, we will delve into where they originated from, then we will provide a detailed list of suggestions that will help you care for your orchid plant.

As mentioned above, the orchid grows in tropical environments. In these locations rainfall is frequent and humidity levels are high (more specifically, 80 percent humidity). Orchids flourish where there are high humidity levels. However, this type of environment is obviously not suitable to human beings. Thus, there are great alternative methods you can use to guarantee your orchid plant blooms in a less "tropical" setting.

The simplest method to humidifying orchids is by giving them a consistent source of water. This can easily be done with a saucer and some rocks. First, place the rocks into a saucer. Next, set the orchid pot onto the pebbles. Then put water into the saucer, but always make sure that the water level does not reach the bottom of the pot. This method creates an "artificial humidity climate" that your orchid will appreciate.

A very common mistake new orchid growers frequently make is that they constantly drench the orchid's roots in water. You must not be fooled by the "dry media." Orchids are well-equipped to last long periods of time without water. Their roots have a strong sinewy material at the core and a sponge-like covering. The spongy material will soak up all the water your orchid needs and will distribute it up through the stringy core to the rest of the plant. Moreover, the media itself holds moisture thus providing more water for your orchid to utilize.

If you water your orchid about once every week to every other week, you should not have any problems. And make sure that when you do water your orchid plant, the media has dried out entirely prior to you watering it. This may sound strange to newbies but it should be followed closely. Remember, orchids naturally live in tropical environments and thus flourish within trunks and branches of trees. So, it is very typical for their roots to become saturated before they are exposed to a new period of rainfall.

Lastly, make sure that your orchid is fertilized sparingly. Water soluble fertilizer works best on orchid plants and can be found in any garden shop. It's best to make a monthly watering and fertilizing schedule so your orchid gets the right care it needs (and you get to enjoy them for longer). Your orchid will bloom beautifully if it is given the right amount of attention. Be sure that it receives water, light, bark, and fertilizer in their respective amounts and your orchids will grow into wonderful house plants.

About the Author
Learn the best techniques for watering orchids. Check out http://www.Orchid911.com to learn more helpful tips when buying, growing, and caring for orchids. Terri Andrews may be contacted at http://www.orchid911.com/. Click here to view more articles by Terri Andrews.