The secrets of proper orchid spraying
As it turned out, spraying orchids is one of the common questions asked by gardeners.
Why do they do it? It's simple - this creates the best humidity conditions for the growth and development of the plant.
It is important to spray correctly so that a cloud of water dust does not form around the flower. And you need to direct it only to those areas that need additional hydration. Sometimes the orchid is sprayed to get rid of diseases and pests.
What is this procedure?
Spraying is the process of applying pesticides in a liquid state. In this case, this is aeration with water in order to prevent decay and drying of the plant. It can be used to control diseases and pests, to get rid of weeds and disinfect.
If you need to process the plants, often use special solutions and suspensions. The effectiveness of this method depends on how toxic the pesticides are, how long they last.Does the plant need spraying with water?
You can and should spray orchids with water. But after the end of such a procedure, you must definitely walk with a cotton swab on all the leaves and flowers.
Otherwise, due to increased humidity, bacteria will multiply and various diseases can develop.
remember, that it’s better to spray a bit than to overdo it. It is better to keep the plants on a pallet with a grate - so excess moisture will drain off on its own and will not harm the plant.
When is contraindicated?
Is it always necessary to do this, because it is known that during dormancy it is necessary to reduce orchid watering up to 1 time per month? The same applies to spraying. But, if you see that the plant begins to noticeably wither and dry out, you need to carry out a small watering, and it is better to spray it and remove excess moisture.
How and what to do at home?
As such, there are no special tools for orchids. Indoor plants are best treated with boiled or rain water - it will create additional moisture, which is so necessary for growth and flowering. You can also take advantage of the protected tap water. Make sure it is warm.
How often can I do it?
This should be done as regularly as possible - 2 times a week. But here we should not forget that all varieties have different requirements for spraying. Once in 7 days it will be quite enough for some.
Which part of the plant to moisturize?
During this procedure, special attention is paid to the leaves. You need to try to moisten them from all sides. In particular, give them more attention in winter if the plant does not go into a dormant state. The air in the house or apartment becomes very dry due to heating, so additional humidification will not hurt.
How does it affect a flower?
Here opinions are divided. Some flower growers are convinced that such a procedure is not necessary, since it will not have a special effect on the plant, but in fact it is not so. If moisturized regularly and correctly, the orchid will receive a large amount of moisture and will delight with abundant flowering.
Step-by-step instruction
The instructions for spraying the orchid are as follows:
- Water should be soft. If it is too stiff, boil it. If this is not done, the plant will have white streaks from salts.
- It is better to use a fine spray. If there are large drops on the leaves, then spraying should be stopped.
- You need to carry out the procedure in the morning or afternoon. In the evening, they do not recommend doing this, since moisture that has remained on the leaves and sinuses can lead to the development of diseases.
- In winter, it is better to refrain from moisture, especially in cold weather. Otherwise, bacteria and fungus may develop.
- Do not spray flowers - spots instantly appear on them.
- Moisture should be avoided at the point of growth, as this can cause root decay.
Possible problems after
If this procedure is carried out incorrectly, this can lead to the development of various diseases:
- Damage to rot. Symptoms may be different and they depend on local conditions, air humidity, irrigation intensity and room temperature. We list the following cases: brown rot, black rot, root rot, gray rot, Fusarium rot.
- Sluggish leaves of a black shade. This is a signal that the plant is in great danger. So anthracnose, powdery mildew, leaf spotting may occur. If you diagnose the disease on time, there is a chance to cure the orchid. But in most cases, she is no longer subject to resuscitation and treatment.
- Scabies, ticks and aphids. They have a huge impact on plant development. The most common spider mites, whiteflies, slugs, thrips, sucking parasites. Appear due to excessive moisture.
Flowering Care
If flowers appear on the plant, follow these guidelines:
- Intensive watering. You can make it a shower. The optimum temperature will be 35 degrees. No need to leave water at the growth point so that the plant does not die.
- At night, you need to keep the temperature at the proper level.
- You can not transplant the plant during this period.
- When flowering is allowed to make fertilizing in moderation.
- Do not rearrange the pot from place to place, as this may affect the flowering time.
When the flowers dry and turn black, they are cut. An incision is made at the base. During the dormant period, it is better to refuse to feed or make it minimal. In winter, watering is carried out once a month, however, spraying can be carried out more often. Providing such a plant with proper care, it is possible to achieve a correct and long flowering. You will find all the important information about the conditions of keeping the orchid in this article, and you will receive tips from experienced gardeners about caring for this beauty here.
Interesting video
Watch the video on whether to spray the orchid and how to do it correctly:
Conclusion
Summing up, it is worth noting that spraying is not a complicated procedure. And, if done correctly, the result will not be long in coming. Also, do not forget that it needs to be carried out on schedule, avoiding drought or waterlogging.