Orchid in water - this is how you do it

Even though a gardener would prefer to recommend growing orchids in bark, it is possible to make them thrive in a vase of water. It is especially fun to try something different with a classic plant. Putting an orchid in water can be a great challenge for plant enthusiasts who want to experiment with alternative growth methods, and a stylish interior tip for anyone who wants to give the orchid a more modern look.

Some orchids are better suited for growing in water than others. Below we provide some general tips, but please note that the results may vary depending on the species and care.Phalaenopsis orchids, our most popular, are sturdy plants that can tolerate growing in water.Vanda orchids often have thick, strong roots, indicating that they can also thrive in water.Some species of Dendrobium orchids can also be grown in water, especially those with thick roots.,How to succeed with orchids in water,Thoroughly clean the roots by removing all soil and bark, rinse the roots with tap water.Place the orchid in a suitable glass vase, with the roots inside the vase and the leaves outside.Fill the bottom of the vase with some water – let most of the roots dip in the water, but make sure the water does not reach the plant. Monitor the water level and adjust as needed.Change the water regularly to avoid bacteria and algae – once a week is a good rule of thumb, but in the beginning you may want to change it more frequently (it's not easy to remove all debris from the roots at once).Add some orchid fertilizer to the water every other month, so the plant gets the nutrients it needs to bloom.,Challenges with orchids in water,Orchids are not meant to grow in water, but they can adapt. However, there are some challenges to be aware of:The roots may start to rot when constantly submerged in water, which can harm the plant. Change the water often and keep an eye on the roots!Like other plants, orchids rely on nutrients to grow and bloom. Without soil or bark, the plant may have limited access to nutrients. Therefore, add some orchid fertilizer to the water occasionally.If the plant is unstable in the vase, it won't have enough support to grow. Therefore, choosing a fitting vase is important.,By following the tips above, there shouldn't be any reason not to give it a try. Let the trend of growing orchids in water continue, we say – just be prepared that it requires a bit more care and attention compared to growing them in soil and bark.,