2 weeks Ago By Chanelle Georgina
Orchids are exotic-looking plants that come in an array of vibrant colours, from different shades of pinks, purples, and oranges to blues. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) pointed out that orchids "like regular watering and misting". And while some may regard these plants as fussy, they much prefer "rainwater or boiled water" to tap water.
But when it comes to watering the orchid , there's one item you may not have considered adding to the water. Rice water may benefit orchids in several ways, according to a recent TikTok video by Ideal Home. There are apparently three reasons why you should use rice water on any orchid plants you may have.
"It contains starches that provide energy," Ideal Home noted, adding that rice water has vitamin B "which helps build a robust root system". And the third reason a plant enthusiast should consider watering their orchid with rice water is because it "helps build up beneficial bacteria in the soil". Tammy Sons, a horticulturist and CEO of TN Nurseries, told Homes and Gardens that rice water can also "help orchid plants grow more shoots”, which can promote flowering.
Jane Dobbs, lead gardener at Allan's Gardeners, agreed, telling Woman&Home that rice water can "lead to healthy growth" because it contains carbohydrates, amino acids and vitamins. 1. Save the leftover water when you boil rice, and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Mix one part rice water to one part normal water. 3.
Water the orchid every two to three weeks, adding the rice water directly onto the soil. It's recommended to dilute the rice water with one cup of water to prevent the potting mix from hardening. The Orchid Society of Great Britain noted you should tailor your watering schedule "based on observation".
The organisation added that "you want your orchid to have a perfect balance between being wet and dry". If you wait until the potting medium becomes dry and the roots are silvery-white in colour, you'll likely water the orchid at the best time. Regarding potting mixture, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) highlighted that they grow best in "bark-based orchid compost".
The orchid needs a place with "bright [indirect] light" to bloom and thrive, such as a north—or east-facing windowsill. Do be mindful that any cold draughts could cause the flower buds on an orchid to drop. "They’re well-suited to our centrally heated homes, producing exotic displays of large blooms that can last for months," the RHS added.
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