Beautiful, fragrant and fascinating, orchids are becoming more and more common in our interiors. Although there are many species and varieties, the most popular plant is the phalaenopsis orchid or “moth orchid.” Unique with its colorful flowers, its incomparable shape and its delicate scent, it has very specific needs, notably in watering, light, temperature and compost. However, sometimes, despite all the care given to it, its roots can deteriorate, its leaves fall and its flowers wither.
Are you panicking at the thought of seeing its petals fall day after day? Maybe your orchid isn’t watered enough. You should know that watering is a parameter that should not be neglected to keep this plant alive. Depending on the seasons and the change in temperature, it is important to know how to measure your water intake. In fact, it is enough to make certain watering errors for the roots to become damaged or rot. Unfortunately, over time, if it is not taken care of properly, the plant can die.
Fortunately, to save an orchid that is on the verge of perishing, there are various very conclusive solutions, including the famous sponge trick that we will reveal to you in this article.
Let’s see together how to save a dry orchid with practical and quick tips.
The sponge trick to save the orchid
Do your plant’s roots seem dry or rotten? To understand these inconveniences, you must try to determine where the source of the problem comes from and intervene as quickly as possible to try to save the orchid. If you don’t act quickly, it may be too late! Remember, the longer you delay things, the less likely the plant will survive.
- Prune the roots
The verdict is clear: the roots of your orchid are really suffering. You must therefore immediately take the plant out of the pot. Then prune the rotten or dry roots using sterilized shears. During this operation, remember to only remove the roots that seem completely dry or rotten, leaving all the others intact.
- Put a sponge
At this point, you’ve removed the “diseased” part of the plant, but your orchid definitely can’t survive without roots! You must therefore give it a second wind by allowing it to take root again. To do this, the sponge solution comes at the right time!
Take a dish sponge and tie it to the base of your orchid. Then put everything in a glass filled with just one finger of water. This way the sponge will act as a natural habitat for the orchid to produce new roots.
- Repot the plant
After 2 or 3 weeks, you will be relieved to see that the roots have developed. Now it is time to repot the plant in a suitable pot and soil. Start watering sparingly, keeping the soil always moist but never completely wet. Precisely , to maintain the humidity level and promote the growth of the orchid, don’t forget to spray a little water on the leaves every 3 or 4 days.
- Precautions
To hope for promising results, know that the sponge trick is much more favorable during the hot months. If you apply it in fall or winter, the chances of success will be much lower. Also remember to place your orchid in a sufficiently bright place, without direct exposure to the sun.
Rooting with Peat and Sand
Here is an alternative, and more traditional, method that will allow your orchid to generate new roots. This involves rooting it in a pot with peat and sand.
Instructions for use: already remove all the wilted flowers. After a few days, prune the rotten or dry roots before rooting your seedling. In addition to peat and sand, sphagnum moss is also widely used, which creates a perfect substrate for the production of new roots. To hope for new growth, arm yourself with a lot of patience. It takes around two to three months for your orchid to flower again!
Prevention: Some basic rules to follow to take care of an orchid
The best way to keep your orchid alive is, of course, to avoid damaging its roots.
Here are important parameters to take into account:
- Regular watering
As it is a plant of tropical origin, watering is vital for the orchid. When you notice that it has wilted, yellowed or even blackened, it has not been watered properly. Either too much or not enough. It is important to find the right balance between excess water and too dry soil!
In spring and summer, water your orchid more frequently: the secret is to test the soil and add water each time it is too dry or no longer moist. The best watering method is to soak the seedling in a basin or sink with water and let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the orchid to absorb only the amount of water it really needs.
NB : Excess watering can also be fatal to your orchid. You just need to carefully observe the roots to measure the need for water. If you notice that they are turning gray, then you need to water more. Otherwise, abundant watering is only useful once a week.
- Clear vase
Remember to always use a clear or transparent vase for your orchid, so you can always check the condition of its roots. The latter, if they come into direct contact with light, become stronger and healthier. So choose a plastic pot that lets the sun’s rays pass through: the roots will dry out sooner and be less fragile.
- Suitable location
For the well-being of your orchid, opt for a place where there is plenty of light, but without direct exposure to the sun. Ambient humidity should not be less than 60%. Ideally, we recommend a location in the bathroom or kitchen where humidity is generally higher.
- Fertilizer
Know that there are fertilizers specific to orchids. Because, sometimes a certain alternation of minerals is necessary: during the growth of the leaves, a nitrogen fertilizer would be more advisable, while during flowering, we prefer a compost richer in potassium.
By taking all these precautions to the letter and being perfectly attentive to the growth of your orchids, you will no longer have to worry. They will continue to enhance your interior while remaining fresh and radiant with beauty!
