Orchid in water - how to do it

While most gardeners would strongly recommend growing orchids in bark, you can definitely get them to thrive in a vase of water. Plus, it’s just a fun way to try something different with a classic plant.

Growing an orchid in water can be a cool challenge for plant lovers who want to experiment with new growing methods, and it's also a stylish way to give your orchid a more modern look.

Some orchids are better suited for growing in water than others. Here are some general tips, but keep in mind that results can vary depending on the specific type of orchid and how you care for it.

• Phalaenopsis orchids, which are the most popular ones, are pretty hardy and can handle being grown in water.
• Vanda orchids often have thick, strong roots, which means they can also do well in water.
• Some types of Dendrobium orchids can also be grown in water, especially those with thick roots.

1. Clean the roots thoroughly by removing all the soil and bark, then rinse them under the tap.
2. Place the orchid in a suitable glass vase, making sure the roots are inside the vase and the leaves are outside.
3. Add a little water to the bottom of the vase – most of the roots should be in the water, but make sure the water doesn't reach the base of the plant. Keep an eye on the water level and adjust as needed.
4. Change the water regularly to prevent bacteria and algae growth – once a week is a good general rule, but you might want to change it more often at the beginning (since it's tricky to get absolutely all the debris off the roots right away).
5. Add a bit of orchid fertilizer to the water about once every two months, so the plant gets the nutrients it needs to flower.

Orchids aren't naturally designed to grow in water, but they can adapt. However, there are a few challenges to be aware of:

• The roots can start to rot if they're constantly sitting in water, which can damage the plant. Change the water often and keep an eye on the roots!
• Like other plants, orchids need nutrients to grow and flower. Without soil or bark, the plant's access to nutrients can be limited. So, add a little orchid fertilizer to the water from time to time.
• If the plant is unstable in the vase, it won't have enough support to grow properly. Choosing a suitable vase is therefore important.

However, if you follow the tips above, we see no reason not to give it a try! Let the trend continue to bloom, we say – just keep in mind that growing orchids in water requires a bit more care and attention compared to soil or bark.

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