Hello Viewers! I have an updated video on how I am fertilizing my Phalenopsis orchids...here's the link: th-cam.com/video/druORzJTW4Q/w-d-xo.html I've had a lot of success this past summer with my new regimen and wanted to share my new fertilizer "recipe". I have also included how I will be fertilizing this Autumn. Thanks so much for watching and have a great day!
Just watched this vid, now i have had orchids for 12 months i feel brave enough to give water culture a go. I absolutely love this learning curve. Much love Ju xxx
Thank you! I saved a horribly rotted newly purchased orchid after blooming was finished by using your amazing method! It’s brown dead roots have greened up nicely now. These were dead looking roots ! So thankful my intuition told me to save them anyway. Now it’s growing a nice new leaf and 4 new roots. It was moved to water culture 6 weeks ago. I know this would not have survived let alone start to thrive if I had just reported it 🌱😃. Bless you
Hi Christie! Thanks so much for sharing your success story and for your sweet comment! I'm so happy to hear that your orchid is doing well now in water culture! Congratulations on saving this one! :) Have a great day and happy growing!
With the amount of orchids that I have and everything else that I have to do, this is just not practical or compatible with my lifestyle. If I did water my orchids like this, I would be doing nothing else, day in and day out. I'm glad this works for you and I appreciate you showing us. Thanks!
Hello, again! This is another lesson I needed. You are always incredibly detailed in your step-by-step tutorials, Thank you so much for addressing and sharing another fertilizing question. I appreciate your time and effort sharing another top-shelf video! Bless you!! Date: 11/10/2017
Hello friend! I adore your videos and lovely voice; so soothing and it makes me think I can grow beautiful orchids too. I tried the FWC this spring with a phal that was a little sad and so happy to report that she is in full flower! I tried another and she’s growing a new leaf! I really enjoy rescuing grocery store plants and my latest is an orchid that looked fine except the flower was finished. She’s now in FWC and forming a new leaf as well. You have inspired me and I thank you Orchid Mum!!
Hello Renee and thanks so much for your awesome comment! It made my day! It sounds like you're doing great with water culture...Congratulations! Your orchids are thriving under your care! :) I appreciate you sharing your success with me, and I'm happy to be an Orchid Mum! :) Have a wonderful day and happy growing! Amy
I absolutely love watching your videos they have been very helpful for me I’ve converted most of mine and my mums orchids to water culture now. I have a cymbidium to convert next but I might wait a year or two as I’ve only just got it. Plus I need to find a big enough vase!
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words! :) Actually, I recommend you keep your cymbidium in the same type of media it's growing in now. They are semi-terrestrial orchids, and they don't do well in water culture. (And I can't imagine how large a vase you'd have to find! :) Have a great day and happy growing! :)
I took your advice about only adding to water culture and the cuttings of other plants I propigate thru water culture are doing great, immediately seen new growth start.
thank you Amy. It s not easy like you said to deal with fertilize amounts but i think i understand the general way. I ve started (with not ideal time during the winter i didn t know that at time till un learn to me) with water culture i didnt plan to grow orchids 3 months ago i "felt" on a vidéo in youtube and wouaww i saw orchids growing in water! and i loved watching those videos day after day . So i ve started without knowledges i thought it s easy.. i was a little lazy i guess so I have to learn after that to learn grow in bark and moss. i still wait my NZ moss by the way. So it s been more than 3 months i watch videos specially yours and i learn so much ! I couldnt do it sincerely without you. Now i see things growing little by little and it gives me happiness. I see first buds on my first spike and litlle roots growing. i fell more confident now. i continue to do my best in my conditions environnements... and yes you have the more beautifull orchids in youtube☺👍. Just a question Amy the Bloom boster you dont use it for a while right ? have a blessed sunday.
Hi Sophie and thank you so much for your sweet comment! I'm so glad my videos have helped you. :) It sounds like your orchids are doing well since they're spiking and the roots are growing, so congratulations! I haven't used Bloom Booster in a while. I usually use it only when they start spiking. I don't want to use large amounts of phosphorus often, it can create problems. So I'm wondering if I'm going to use it at all from now on. I've been using only the Better Gro Orchid Plus, and it's working great along with the CalMag I've been using. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Hello Question: once you remove the phals from bark or peat moss and get it ready for semi water culture. Do you loose leaves or and roots. And then how long does it take for the roots to grow back. The roots you have growing on your plants are so beautiful
Hi Michelle! Yes, you can lose roots and leaves when you do water culture. It's really what I consider an advanced growing method. I have a video that will give you good information before you decide to try water culture: th-cam.com/video/YO30o-G5it8/w-d-xo.html Thanks so much for watching and for your sweet comment! Happy growing! :) Amy
Hi, your videos are so informative. One video you mentioned using citrus oil and soap to clean the leaves. Your orchid leaves are so healthy. Please list the ingredients for cleaning leaves and what kind of citrus oil you use. Thank you
Hi Ailien and thanks so much for watching! :) Here's the link to that video: th-cam.com/video/sIKOvNIhobU/w-d-xo.html Have a great day and happy growing!
Hi! I dont use this technique anymore, this was when I just started the water culture method. And you're right, it took forever! Lol. I have a playlist on my channel about water culture with more current videos you'll find helpful. Happy growing!
I know that you've explained your fertilizer routine in the past but actually seeing a video of how it's done was super, super helpful, thank you!! So, you're only fertilizing about once a month now? You will be thankful for the added warmth in your sun-room come January!!
Hi Caroline! I'm so glad this video is helpful to you, and thanks so much for letting me know! I really appreciate the positive feedback! :) I forgot to mention in this video, but I fertilize once a week. It's so warm in my sunroom, and my orchids are growing really well, so I want to fertilize them well. Once the temps go down, I plan on fertilizing weekly at a lower dose. But a lot of that depends on the amount of sunlight they're receiving, too. So right now, I'm playing it by ear, and on rainy, cold days, I don't plan on fertilizing at all. That's where I got into trouble with burnt roots, lesson learned. :) Thanks so much for your question and for watching...have a great day my friend! :)
I'm a visual learner too. My Phals ❤❤❤ this method here in NC foothills. The 1st week was 'iffy' but I let things go and the 2nd week we have all new roots...fat and green.
Easy measurements!! Thank you!! Do you do calcium , magnesium , and nitrogen in easy measurements or do you just use what in your feed pr fertilizer??? Thanks love all your phals!! Started watching you first with my first phals!! You have taught me alot butI feel still long way to go
Hi Samantha! Thanks so much for following my channel and for your sweet comment! :) The fertilizer I use is Better Gro Orchid Plus, it's pre-mixed. I adjust the dosage as I described in this video. Have a wonderful day and happy growing! :)
Hello, I decided to put one Phal and try water culture....my question is....after I removed it from the bark do I have to put it immediately into the water? I am trying the full water culture method. Thanks so much.
Hi Michael! You can place this Phal in water immediately. I have a playlist I created on my favorite water culture videos that you may find helpful, here's the link: ttps://th-cam.com/video/zFPrQ962JNo/w-d-xo.html You're really wise try just one Phal in WC to see if you like it and your orchid thrives in it. Happy growing!
Hi Julie! I uploaded a Vanda video about a few weeks ago about how I care for them. I go over how I fertilize them as well...it's very important to fertilize them, and that will get some roots growing. Happy growing!
Hi Bobbi and thank you so much for watching! :) It sounds like your water culture is going well, thanks for sharing! Have a great day and happy growing! :)
I’m trying to grow mine in water but it’s not turning out well I keep it in water a day then dry the next day then the following day in water and the next day dry Is there anything I can help it grow better?
Hi Christina! I only use water culture as a temporary growing method now. I have a playlist about water culture that explains in detail my journey. Happy growing! 😇
Just curious.. once an orchid absorbs fresh water is it able to continue to absorb the additional fertilized water? You have so much experience with your WC. and they are so beautiful & healthy looking. Thank you for sharing your technique and knowledge on this interesting subject!
Hi Barb and thanks so much for your sweet comment and your question! The orchid is able to absorb the fertilizer because you're changing the distilled or filtered water (a hypotonic solution) to the fertilizer (a hypertonic solution) and that changes the osmotic pressure of the cell walls. Thanks always for watching and have a great day, my friend!
I Bought Two Mini Phalaenopsis Orchid There In Orchid Bark I Don't Have Clear Tea Coffee Cups There Regler The Two Mini Phalaenopsis Orchid One Regler One Tea Cup One Mini Phalaenopsis In Tea Cup 🍵 Regler Coffee ☕️ Cup Cup Right ✅️ Now There Dorrmintse One In Bloom The Two I Bought There Healthy 😀 Have A Wonderful Afternoon Laurie Ann Mandoshkin
I’m still struggling with my water culture. Last year I thought I was on my way to success until I returned from my overseas trip and all 13 of my orchids died 😢 I was devastated and I only had the courage to buy new orchids this November. So I’m wary of not only turning to water culture but if looking after orchids in general. I’m struggling with my vanda as well 😩😩😩
Hi Dana! The term "water culture" can be misleading...I always wondered what was in it as well. It's just water. (Filtered, great quality water. You can use bottled or filtered water, pH 6.0 - 6.5) Just be aware that some phals like water culture, and some don't. So if you're thinking about trying this method, I would encourage you to thoroughly research it. If have a video, "What I've learned in more than a year of growing in water culture", publish date Aug 17, 2017 that you may find helpful. Also, "Reasons why to convert orchids to media from water culture" publish date Sept 13, 2017 is a good guideline to go by. But my best advise is to try just one phal, a phal that you can practice on and replace...not your favorite one. :) If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Happy growing and have a great day! :)
Hi Amy. So here you use 1/2 amount of fertilizer. If you use less during the winter like 1/8 or 1/4 you put a little fertlize in the plastic pot right? Like half, of the amount in this video ? 1/8 = foliage fertlize if i understand... I hope you understand what i mean...
Hi Sophie! Yes, in the colder months I use 1/8 to 1/4 of the recommended amount. They're not growing as quickly in the winter, so I still fertilize them, but at this smaller dose. Happy growing! :)
haha! Hi Dana! If you really want to give it a try, you could always find a phal on discount table (in good shape, do yourself a favor!:) and practice on it. You never know, it might do just fine! I just don't advise taking an expensive orchid or your favorite orchid this time of the year and trying to convert it...even changing media this time of the year is not the best idea. Have a great day and keep me posted! Happy growing my friend! :)
I live in zone 7b where our summers get in the 100Fs or 40c ish but in my bedroom where i keep my orchid the average temp is 74F to 75F, what would you recommend?
Hi Julie! I watch the lower leaves. If they start getting wrinkled, I know the orchid needs a higher water level. I immerse mine about half way up the root system and that works well for me. Happy growing!
Thanks for your video. May you please tell me where do you buy water you are talking about? And what is a name of this water exactly? Thank you in a advance
Hi Linda! I use reverse osmosis filtered water. I have the filtration system installed under my sink, but a Brita filter would give you the same result. Happy growing! Amy
Hi..can I start a nursery orchid on full water culture right away? Also which is better, normal tap water or filtered/distilled water? You said you change the water once per week.
Hi and thanks so much for your kind words! :) I haven't used Superthrive on my orchids, I use Better Gro, and I've had really good results with it. Thanks again for watching and have a great day!
Hi Beatriz and thanks so much for watching! "Water culture" is simply good, quality water. There's nothing in it. That's why the orchids need regular fertilizing. Have a great day! :)
Thanx for telling me! I will research it. How does one know if indeed the orchid does like WC? Is it something in their roots? That would be the obvious since those are in water but yet I don't know. I will watch those videos you suggested and thanx!!!
Hi Dana! If you're going into late fall where you live, I would suggest you wait to do water culture in the spring. That's the best time to try it. The phals I have in water culture right now I converted in spring and summer and they have done the best. Also, try with a newly purchased phal. Those tend to convert much easier. You have to watch the roots with this growing method carefully. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Hi, Thank you for putting this videos together. They're going to help a lot. We Live in a tropical environment. Regarding fertilizing, should I use a full teaspoon of 20-14-13 throughout the year...? our ambient temperature is seldom lower than 75 degrees.
Hi Jose and thanks so much for watching! Last summer, it was really hot here (90-100 degrees F) and I used one-half teaspoon of 20-14-13 on my phals. They grew really well at that rate. If you decide to use the full teaspoon, I'd try it on just one orchid and see how it does. One teaspoon of that fertilizer equals about 1100-1200 ppm, and that's really high. Happy growing! :)
I'm sure you've said this in a previous video....but why do you give them a dry period if they are in full water culture? Thanks for this terrific hands on video!!!
Hi Terry and thanks so much for your kind comment! :) Since I've been giving them 2 dry days a week, the root rot has stopped. They also need wet/dry cycles to grow properly...they grow much better for me this way. Thank you for your question, and have a great day my friend! Happy growing! :)
Hi Valentina! I have a video about how I care for my water culture orchids from Jan 17, 2018. I go over some specifics about the wet/dry cycles that will answer your questions. Thanks again for watching and have a great day! :)
Hi Serena! I posted a current video in December 2020 about how I fertilize now. I use the same fertilizer recipe for WC, bark or moss. Thanks so much for watching...happy growing!
I have a question for you. It's about my vanda. I got it about 2 months ago and it had four leaves...now it has 2. I think the center of it is dying. What do I do? It is a young plant....but I love all orchids and want to see this vanda thrive! I'd appreciate your opinion!
Hi Dana! I have a video, "Vanda Day Video" publish date Sept 20, 2017 that I explain in detail how I care for my vandas. They require a lot of sunlight, fertilizer, and water to thrive. If the center of it is dying, just be aware that it's going to be hard to get it to turn around. If it looks like it's rotting, you need to decide if you want to take the risk of it being around your other orchids, too. Have a great day and thanks so much for watching!
Hi and thanks so much for watching! I use a drop of dishwashing liquid on a damp paper towel. It's very easy, and very effective! Have a great day and happy growing!
Hi Verma! Yes, I used to use slightly alkaline water for my water culture. My orchids do much better at this pH. Thanks so much for watching and for your question! Have a great day! :)
Hello. I have a question. You mentioned putting a line so that you know how much water your Phal likes. How do you know what level they like? Do you look at the roots or leaves ? What exactly do you look for? I have moved 2 orchids to FWC and am unsure. Thank you and love your videos !
Hi! I have a video from March 31, 2017 that I explain about my water levels. In full water culture, you place about 1/3 of the roots in the water, and then you watch the plant to see if it likes that level. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. Water levels can be tricky! :) Have a great day and thanks again for watching!
Hello! Thank you so much for your videos. I am very new to FWC but am very curious to try it. I was looking through some of your other videos on fertilizing and in one of them you say you only mist/fertilize your leaves but here you are soaking them 1/week. Which is better in a colder climate such as Canada? Thank you very much!
Hi and thanks so much for watching and for your kind comment! :) When I first started water culture, there was very little info about fertilizing them, so I learned from experience. This is my latest video on fertilizing in water culture, and my most current information. It's still warm where I live here in Tennessee, and you have to take your climate into consideration. If you have a warm, sunny day, then fertilize on that day. If it's cold and snowing, you need to postpone fertilizing them, because it takes warmth and sun to break down the fertilizer. So just be aware this time of the year to be careful with your fertilizer regimen. Have a great day and happy growing!
Hello again! My orchids are adjusting beautifully, even in this cold! New roots are forming. I have bought 2 more small phals in the meantime and they are in mid bloom. I was wondering if transferring them to FWC is recommended when they are blooming? or should I wait for them to finish and then trim back the stem before transferring them?
hi, was watching your video and was wondering after hearing u say u save your phals water (her home water) after you fertilize. Im afraid to fertilize her shes my first water culture phal that i rescued from the grocery store. I soo want her to do well and i think now after maybe 4-6 months she's growing i see new roots and maybe even a flower spike not sure if it is yet. Anyhow when i water i pull her out of her little glass bowl and put brand new water in... Should i be saving whats left? Her home water and just add more? I love watching your videos. I want to thank you, you have given me great advice with my other two phals in moss. Just wondering about this. thanks again.
Hi Judy and thanks so much for your sweet comment! I truly appreciate that. I do save part of the existing water my orchids have been in (their home water) and use it along with about 50% fresh water. My orchids grow better that way. Thank you again for watching and happy growing! :)
I find it very confusing on saving water culture water & replacing with fresh water and then dry days...sorry but gets way to complicated and have to question why all that process is really necessary. Sorry but just curious about the whole process being so time consuming. Have grown orchids for years & not beginner.
Kricket Girl 😂 I hear ya. But not just orchids. Other plants, tropical/fresh water fish, trees, automobiles, crochet, cooking... it seems (to me) that anything and everything people do, there will eventually be some that that find complicated / extreme ways to set themselves apart and get that fame or try to get the initial rush from when they first started in what ever it is. Simple studs or hoop earrings are nice... noooo, let's attach them everywhere. Skiing is easy and beautiful. Nooooo, let's do 80mph down a mountain or fly 16' into the air in a halfpipe. A good set of vocal chords and band are beautiful... nooooo, queue Pink and Garth Brook doing aerial acrobatics over the crowd. Anyone can learn the basics and be successful but many then... 🙄 With aquariums and plants, I like the common trend I see where (to me) they get bored and then start messing with chemicals, specialized food regimens... trying for bigger, better, fancier bragging rights and viewtube dollars. 😎 God bless them all. I stick with the KISS principal, enjoy my consistent results in everything and then watch youtube for amusement.
Hello. I️ have a few of my phals in FWC and they have all been doing well for a while but lately I’ve been noticing that some of the roots are getting dark (not rotting). They are still firm but dark green almost black. Do you know why this happens or what I️ can do to avoid it?
Hi and I've had a similar experience with my FWC phals. I was spraying my roots with hydrogen peroxide, and I think it turned the roots dark. I stopped spraying the peroxide, and my roots don't do that anymore. I have a video that might help you, "What I've learned in more than a year of growing my orchids in water culture", publish date Aug 17, 2017. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
O my..I’m not a professional grower but hydrogen peroxide 3% is only used on roots or stalk of orchids to eliminate rot or green/black mold u typically see on orchids in bark that have been overwatered.
This is obviously not for beginners. I'm not savvy enough to know about water culture water & reverse osmosis water. I have no, nada, zilch, roots on my stem & just one wrinkled leaf & one tiny new leaf that I have hanging over water & I see Little tiny roots coming but I'm afraid I'm going to loose the one leaf. I don't know whether to spray with water more than once a day. I let it drink once a day by dipping it in water. I sprayed it with diluted kelp when I set it up but not since & that was about 3 days ago. It needs some serious help & I don't know if I'm knowledgeable enough for the challenge.
Hi Terry! You're very wise...I don't recommend water culture for beginners. It's tricky even for people who have grown orchids for many years. I suggest you start with a healthy orchid, and grow it in either orchid bark or moss. I have a beginner's orchid growers playlist on my channel to help you. I wish you lots of growing success! :)
Good afternoon. I am very sad t today... I repotted my phals and switched them from spagna moss to bark a couple weeks ago to prevent root rot, following another TH-cam advise that said that store bought plants had to be repotted immediately since most likely roots were already rotting. Well, the awesome healthy roots the plants had are now rotting... I am really in tears because they are my first attempt at growing orchids. What do you recommend, keeping them in the bark (I cleaned roots yesterday), switching them to moss or trying water culture? I appreciate your advice.
Hi! What I would do is leave them in bark at this point. Especially if you are going into the winter months, this is not a good time to repot. The roots will grow in the spring and establish in the pot. I wish you the best and please know that it takes time and usually many mistakes before you learn to grow orchids. So don't give up! Keep studying and learning, and you'll grow beautiful orchids. :) Have a great day!
Good evening. Thanks for your reply, I really appreciate it. I watched the video you released today ... wow, so many years growing! That explains why you make everything sound so smooth, so "flowing"... I really appreciate your kindness and willingness to share your knowledge. I will follow your advice and give the girls a chance. I never stopped to consider seasons really determine the time to repot, fertilize, etc. Ihave so much to learn ...Thanks again for your kind words. Many blessings to you and your family.
Hi Bobbi! There's no "rules" about water culture...you can adjust it to suit your environment. FWC is usually about 1/3 of the roots in water...I use this much for my phals. But I let them have a day or two out of water each week because it decreases the root rot. SWC is about 2/3 of the roots in water, about 2 days wet and 4 or 5 days dry, or whenever your roots need to be watered. My water culture follows what my individual orchids need. And it changes from season to season. Thanks for your question, and have a great day! :)
Hi Paula! Normally, I would say yes. And if you have a way to filter your rain water, I'd say yes. But I've heard from several growers who have found mosquito larvae floating around in their rain water culture, so be aware of that. I would be safe and use reverse osmosis filtered water, and reserve the rain water for fertilizing. (That would be a really good use for it.) Thanks so much for watching...have a great day! :)
Hi Andrew! I am growing this orchid in water culture. I have many videos on my channel where I explain this method. This is not an easy growing method, so growers need experience with orchids before trying it. I researched this method for months before I started growing in water culture. Have a great day and happy growing!
Was just thinking if the plant actually is able or will take much nutrients after its been soaking in its original water, then in fresh and only after that is offered nutrients for 30min?
I have been growing my orchid in water the Sam, I have now 5flower buds on the new stem, what should I do now, do I move it off the cold window sill & bring it in a warmer room, i live in UK I.O.W.
Hi Lynette! Once the buds start opening, you can move it into a room with bright, indirect light. If it's cold in your window sill, you probably need to move it back from the window...if the buds touch cold glass windows, the buds will drop. Thanks for watching and have a great day! :)
I cut off a spike from my phalaenopsis after it lost all its flowers. Can that spike, in water, grow more flowers?. Something is growing on the ends of the branches.
Hi Jean! I tried placing a spike in water like this to see what would happen. Mine grew for a while, then stopped. But it's worth a try and it's interesting to see that the spike stays green for a very long time in water. Keep me posted! Have a great day and thanks again for watching! :)
That was a mistake I made years ago and recently learned that stalk can form new buds & bloom again if u cut above the second node from the base of plant. That way eliminates the spent blooms on stalk but gives energy to stalk to encourage new buds. Didn’t know that either until recently..it’s a learning curve for sure, lol
Hi Mellie! I have several beginner's videos on my channel, and here's a good video to start with: th-cam.com/users/edit?o=U&video_id=nRd9NgUfb_4 There are several other videos on my channel from Oct 2017 that are specifically beginner's videos that will also help you. I wish you much success with your orchid growing! :)
Hi again and a very big thx for all this learning that u offer us. My question for this time is how do u do to dilute your fertilizer ? I have a liquid fertilizer type 646 and i saw in internet that is recommended to divide the first number on 5 and dilute 1 ml of this fertilizer on the number obtained in liters of water. So in my case 6 /5 = 1.2 so i have to dilute 1ml of my fertilizer in 1.2 liter of water. I m a little lost and i m waiting your answer to know if im on the right path.
Hi Nejib and thank you for your kind comment! It sounds like you've calculated the amount correctly. This must be a very concentrated fertilizer. Thanks again for watching and have a great day! :)
For my phals, I use 125-150 ppm fertilizer twice a month in the winter. (I only fertilize on sunny days, I set them in a warm sunny windowsill so the nitrogen will break down.) In the summer, depending on the temps, I use 225-300 ppm weekly. (Not on rainy days.) They receive a lot of light in my orchid room (year-round) as well.
Hi April and thanks so much for watching! I go over this question in my video, "How to care for your phalenopsis orchid so it will rebloom", publish date Dec 4, 2017. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Funciona con todas las especies, pero a la misma vez ha dicho en algun video que hay algunas plantas individuales a las que no les gusta. Hasta que tengas mas experiencia practica con una orquidea que no sea tu favorita (dice ella en uno de sus videos).
Thank you for introducing this method of growing Orchids of which I'm very much like to try.I'm still not clear of what water to use.Is it ok to used tape water, rain water or plain bottle water from the shop? Please help, thank you.
Hi and thanks so much for watching! Just a heads-up on this growing method...do lots of research before you start. Some orchids do really well, and some don't. Especially if you're growing phals, that holds true. I have a video, "What I've learned in over a year of growing my orchids in water culture", publish date Aug 17, 2017 that you will find helpful. Also, it's easier to convert to water culture in the springtime. (Try a new phal, not one already in your collection.) I use triple filtered reverse osmosis water, you can also use plain bottled water. Have a wonderful day and happy growing! :)
Do u mean Tap water like city water? I have very hard water & always use very very small amt of fertilizer every time water. Orchid Society website AOS has good info on ‘weakly weekly’, simply use a fraction of recommend dose in water.
Hi Robyn and thanks so much for watching! The fertilizer I use is Better Gro Orchid Plus. It's chemical composition is 20-14-13. I buy it locally or on Amazon. I'm not sure if you can buy it in Australia, and that's why I refer to it as 20-14-13, so everyone will have a basis of comparison. The main thing is, to find a fertilizer formulated for orchids. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Thank you for answering so quickly, I have always had a passion for orchids, I bought one when I was a teenager and had no idea what to do with it, I have recently bought a Phalaenopsis from the supermarket, have taken my daughters orchid that someone gave her I have no idea what it is she is not garden person, I have transferred it to water, as I love looking at the hole plant, I now have the bug I want to buy more, thank you once again about the fertilizing tips I will keep watching Aussie Robyn
I am new to the fwc method of growing orchids. This may be a stupid question but why are the containers always clear? Do the orchids need the light on their roots? Thanks for your great videos!
Hi and that's a good question! You can use any container that is color-fast. I use some of my decorative orchid pots with water culture, and I use plastic CD storage containers. The containers don't have to be clear. (I like to watch the roots grow, so that's why I use so many clear containers!) Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Por favor alguien me podría traducir este video al idioma Español pues tengo 3,orquídeas en agua y Creo que estos vídeos me aclararian mucho ,pues creo que explican el sistema para cuidar las en agua amiga o amigo le estaría muy agradecida gracias de antemano desde España
Hi Johnny! I have an updated video on this topic...I've simplified and changed the way I fertilize my orchids in water culture. Here's the link to the new video: th-cam.com/video/druORzJTW4Q/w-d-xo.html Thanks so much for watching and have a great day!
Hello Viewers! I have an updated video on how I am fertilizing my Phalenopsis orchids...here's the link: th-cam.com/video/druORzJTW4Q/w-d-xo.html
I've had a lot of success this past summer with my new regimen and wanted to share my new fertilizer "recipe". I have also included how I will be fertilizing this Autumn. Thanks so much for watching and have a great day!
Just watched this vid, now i have had orchids for 12 months i feel brave enough to give water culture a go. I absolutely love this learning curve. Much love Ju xxx
Thank you! I saved a horribly rotted newly purchased orchid after blooming was finished by using your amazing method! It’s brown dead roots have greened up nicely now. These were dead looking roots ! So thankful my intuition told me to save them anyway. Now it’s growing a nice new leaf and 4 new roots. It was moved to water culture 6 weeks ago.
I know this would not have survived let alone start to thrive if I had just reported it 🌱😃. Bless you
Hi Christie! Thanks so much for sharing your success story and for your sweet comment! I'm so happy to hear that your orchid is doing well now in water culture! Congratulations on saving this one! :) Have a great day and happy growing!
You seriously have the BEST looking orchids on TH-cam! When ever I have any questions or need to know something I come straight to your videos! :)
Thank you so much for your sweet comment, Valentina! :) It made my day! Happy growing!
Thank you so much for your videos,Orchid whisperer.They helped a lot😋I’m so glad I found you on TH-cam.
With the amount of orchids that I have and everything else that I have to do, this is just not practical or compatible with my lifestyle. If I did water my orchids like this, I would be doing nothing else, day in and day out. I'm glad this works for you and I appreciate you showing us. Thanks!
Hello, again! This is another lesson I needed. You are always incredibly detailed in your step-by-step tutorials, Thank you so much for addressing and sharing another fertilizing question. I appreciate your time and effort sharing another top-shelf video! Bless you!! Date: 11/10/2017
Hello!! I'm so glad this video answered your fertilizing question! :) Thanks always for your positive feedback...it's always great hearing from you!
Sugarby 200
Sugarby 2000 eff . g
Hello friend! I adore your videos and lovely voice; so soothing and it makes me think I can grow beautiful orchids too. I tried the FWC this spring with a phal that was a little sad and so happy to report that she is in full flower! I tried another and she’s growing a new leaf! I really enjoy rescuing grocery store plants and my latest is an orchid that looked fine except the flower was finished. She’s now in FWC and forming a new leaf as well. You have inspired me and I thank you Orchid Mum!!
Hello Renee and thanks so much for your awesome comment! It made my day! It sounds like you're doing great with water culture...Congratulations! Your orchids are thriving under your care! :) I appreciate you sharing your success with me, and I'm happy to be an Orchid Mum! :) Have a wonderful day and happy growing! Amy
I absolutely love watching your videos they have been very helpful for me I’ve converted most of mine and my mums orchids to water culture now. I have a cymbidium to convert next but I might wait a year or two as I’ve only just got it. Plus I need to find a big enough vase!
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words! :) Actually, I recommend you keep your cymbidium in the same type of media it's growing in now. They are semi-terrestrial orchids, and they don't do well in water culture. (And I can't imagine how large a vase you'd have to find! :) Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Thank you for sharing GB
After this fertilization, how long do you wait until the next fertilization?
Excellent information. I plan to try this method and appreciate your attention to detail.
Thanks so much for watching, Sally-Ann! Happy growing! :)
A very nice video. Good information no matter how one grows orchids..
Thank you so much for your kind comment! I appreciate your positive feedback...have a great day!
I took your advice about only adding to water culture and the cuttings of other plants I propigate thru water culture are doing great, immediately seen new growth start.
Great water culture tutorial😁 I really enjoy your channel and am so amazed by your plants!
Hi Liz! Thanks so much for your sweet comment...it made my day! :) Happy growing and have a wonderful day my friend! :)
thank you Amy. It s not easy like you said to deal with fertilize amounts but i think i understand the general way. I ve started (with not ideal time during the winter i didn t know that at time till un learn to me) with water culture i didnt plan to grow orchids 3 months ago i "felt" on a vidéo in youtube and wouaww i saw orchids growing in water! and i loved watching those videos day after day . So i ve started without knowledges i thought it s easy.. i was a little lazy i guess so I have to learn after that to learn grow in bark and moss. i still wait my NZ moss by the way.
So it s been more than 3 months i watch videos specially yours and i learn so much ! I couldnt do it sincerely without you. Now i see things growing little by little and it gives me happiness. I see first buds on my first spike and litlle roots growing. i fell more confident now. i continue to do my best in my conditions environnements... and yes you have the more beautifull orchids in youtube☺👍. Just a question Amy the Bloom boster you dont use it for a while right ? have a blessed sunday.
Hi Sophie and thank you so much for your sweet comment! I'm so glad my videos have helped you. :) It sounds like your orchids are doing well since they're spiking and the roots are growing, so congratulations! I haven't used Bloom Booster in a while. I usually use it only when they start spiking. I don't want to use large amounts of phosphorus often, it can create problems. So I'm wondering if I'm going to use it at all from now on. I've been using only the Better Gro Orchid Plus, and it's working great along with the CalMag I've been using. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Hello
Question: once you remove the phals from bark or peat moss and get it ready for semi water culture. Do you loose leaves or and roots. And then how long does it take for the roots to grow back.
The roots you have growing on your plants are so beautiful
Hi Michelle! Yes, you can lose roots and leaves when you do water culture. It's really what I consider an advanced growing method. I have a video that will give you good information before you decide to try water culture: th-cam.com/video/YO30o-G5it8/w-d-xo.html
Thanks so much for watching and for your sweet comment! Happy growing! :) Amy
Great tutorial video! :D thank you for posting. I always learn so much watching your posts.
Hi Deann! Thanks so much for your sweet comment...it's always great hearing from you! Have a wonderful day! :)
Pl. Tell when to change water of the glass.
After fertilizing we will keep it dry for whole night, is it?
Pl clear.
Thank you so much for your all tutorials, I am addicted ❤️
Thanks so much for your kind comment, Kim! You made my day! :)) Happy growing and have a great day!
Hi, your videos are so informative. One video you mentioned using citrus oil and soap to clean the leaves. Your orchid leaves are so healthy. Please list the ingredients for cleaning leaves and what kind of citrus oil you use. Thank you
Hi Ailien and thanks so much for watching! :) Here's the link to that video: th-cam.com/video/sIKOvNIhobU/w-d-xo.html
Have a great day and happy growing!
We are living in around 32C for our hot days🥵
And your flowers are very beautiful 😀
Thank u for showing process. But how many times we shall change the water. Everyday or twice a week? Pl mention.
The only plants I have besides fruits and veggies are three types of orchid and love them. Your orchid is beautiful. Loved and Subbed
Thank you so much for your kind comment! Have a wonderful day! :)
Did you say that you always have them in water
Thank you, Amy, for your reply. I appreciate this information very much! 😊
You're welcome, Barb! Happy growing! :)
O gosh! How do you keep up with all of this? Do you get any sleep? Lol
Hi! I dont use this technique anymore, this was when I just started the water culture method. And you're right, it took forever! Lol. I have a playlist on my channel about water culture with more current videos you'll find helpful. Happy growing!
hi. i love your videos! I have an oncidium orchid and trying to revive it in water culture.... are they successful in this medium?
Thanks so much! 😇 I suggest growing your Oncidium in orchid grade New Zealand sphagnum moss. Oncidiums do really well in moss. Happy growing!
Hi, can I mix home water and a little bit fertilizer, and let the orchid root live in that mix?
I know that you've explained your fertilizer routine in the past but actually seeing a video of how it's done was super, super helpful, thank you!! So, you're only fertilizing about once a month now? You will be thankful for the added warmth in your sun-room come January!!
Hi Caroline! I'm so glad this video is helpful to you, and thanks so much for letting me know! I really appreciate the positive feedback! :) I forgot to mention in this video, but I fertilize once a week. It's so warm in my sunroom, and my orchids are growing really well, so I want to fertilize them well. Once the temps go down, I plan on fertilizing weekly at a lower dose. But a lot of that depends on the amount of sunlight they're receiving, too. So right now, I'm playing it by ear, and on rainy, cold days, I don't plan on fertilizing at all. That's where I got into trouble with burnt roots, lesson learned. :) Thanks so much for your question and for watching...have a great day my friend! :)
I'm a visual learner too. My Phals ❤❤❤ this method here in NC foothills. The 1st week was 'iffy' but I let things go and the 2nd week we have all new roots...fat and green.
Tenho 2 Cattleyas posso usar em cultura agua no raizes
Easy measurements!! Thank you!! Do you do calcium , magnesium , and nitrogen in easy measurements or do you just use what in your feed pr fertilizer??? Thanks love all your phals!! Started watching you first with my first phals!! You have taught me alot butI feel still long way to go
Hi Samantha! Thanks so much for following my channel and for your sweet comment! :) The fertilizer I use is Better Gro Orchid Plus, it's pre-mixed. I adjust the dosage as I described in this video. Have a wonderful day and happy growing! :)
Hello, I decided to put one Phal and try water culture....my question is....after I removed it from the bark do I have to put it immediately into the water? I am trying the full water culture method. Thanks so much.
Hi Michael! You can place this Phal in water immediately. I have a playlist I created on my favorite water culture videos that you may find helpful, here's the link: ttps://th-cam.com/video/zFPrQ962JNo/w-d-xo.html
You're really wise try just one Phal in WC to see if you like it and your orchid thrives in it. Happy growing!
I only use filter water - drinking water.
My orchids in water blooming flowers in May - June .
Flowers last for weeks.
What kind of futzing do you use
Why I do exactly like u but my root is rot what happen
One more question. My new vanda arrived with dried hard roots. It there a method to encourage new root growth.
Hi Julie! I uploaded a Vanda video about a few weeks ago about how I care for them. I go over how I fertilize them as well...it's very important to fertilize them, and that will get some roots growing. Happy growing!
Thx, miss Amy: I have several little cattleyas and some oncidiums. I’m currently doing 5 dry & 2 wet (below the stem)
I really enjoy your channel
Hi Bobbi and thank you so much for watching! :) It sounds like your water culture is going well, thanks for sharing! Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Without a doubt u have the most beautiful orchids on utube
Thank you so much, April! Have a wonderful day! :)
Is it safe to use same fertilized water in another orchid plant?
I don't recommend sharing water with orchids...if there's any problem with the orchid, it will be passed on.
I’m trying to grow mine in water but it’s not turning out well
I keep it in water a day then dry the next day then the following day in water and the next day dry
Is there anything I can help it grow better?
Hi Christina! I only use water culture as a temporary growing method now. I have a playlist about water culture that explains in detail my journey. Happy growing! 😇
Just curious.. once an orchid absorbs fresh water is it able to continue to absorb the additional fertilized water? You have so much experience with your WC. and they are so beautiful & healthy looking. Thank you for sharing your technique and knowledge on this interesting subject!
Hi Barb and thanks so much for your sweet comment and your question! The orchid is able to absorb the fertilizer because you're changing the distilled or filtered water (a hypotonic solution) to the fertilizer (a hypertonic solution) and that changes the osmotic pressure of the cell walls. Thanks always for watching and have a great day, my friend!
I was wondering the same thing. Thanks for the answer.
I didnt catch the mix solution.. Can you share me the mix?
Hi! I just released a new video on my mix solution today...11/7/2020. Thanks for watching! :)
What are all your products you use. There was a site were you had all the products on display. I don’t know what to use.
Thank you Helga
Hi Helga! Here's a link to the video about the products I use: th-cam.com/video/Agp6FuttW60/w-d-xo.html
Happy growing!
I Bought Two Mini Phalaenopsis Orchid There In Orchid Bark I Don't Have Clear Tea Coffee Cups There Regler The Two Mini Phalaenopsis Orchid One Regler One Tea Cup One Mini Phalaenopsis In Tea Cup 🍵 Regler Coffee ☕️ Cup Cup Right ✅️ Now There Dorrmintse One In Bloom The Two I Bought There Healthy 😀 Have A Wonderful Afternoon Laurie Ann Mandoshkin
As always, great tutorial. Thank you for all your help 👍😊
I like what you are doing.
Thank you! :)
I have never fertilized my water culture orchids they seem to be doing well, is this a necessary thing to do?
No, it isnt mandatory, but they start declining after a while if they're not getting nutrients.
I’m still struggling with my water culture. Last year I thought I was on my way to success until I returned from my overseas trip and all 13 of my orchids died 😢 I was devastated and I only had the courage to buy new orchids this November. So I’m wary of not only turning to water culture but if looking after orchids in general. I’m struggling with my vanda as well 😩😩😩
What's in water culture? That might be something I might like to try. I use soil now but I like the sounds of leaving their roots breathing.
Hi Dana! The term "water culture" can be misleading...I always wondered what was in it as well. It's just water. (Filtered, great quality water. You can use bottled or filtered water, pH 6.0 - 6.5) Just be aware that some phals like water culture, and some don't. So if you're thinking about trying this method, I would encourage you to thoroughly research it. If have a video, "What I've learned in more than a year of growing in water culture", publish date Aug 17, 2017 that you may find helpful. Also, "Reasons why to convert orchids to media from water culture" publish date Sept 13, 2017 is a good guideline to go by. But my best advise is to try just one phal, a phal that you can practice on and replace...not your favorite one. :) If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Happy growing and have a great day! :)
Hi Amy. So here you use 1/2 amount of fertilizer. If you use less during the winter like 1/8 or 1/4 you put a little fertlize in the plastic pot right? Like half, of the amount in this video ?
1/8 = foliage fertlize if i understand...
I hope you understand what i mean...
Hi Sophie! Yes, in the colder months I use 1/8 to 1/4 of the recommended amount. They're not growing as quickly in the winter, so I still fertilize them, but at this smaller dose. Happy growing! :)
How long is your fertilizer mix good for?
Thanx for the advice. I am like a dog with a bone....I just want to try it NOW! But I will wait! Cuz you said so!
haha! Hi Dana! If you really want to give it a try, you could always find a phal on discount table (in good shape, do yourself a favor!:) and practice on it. You never know, it might do just fine! I just don't advise taking an expensive orchid or your favorite orchid this time of the year and trying to convert it...even changing media this time of the year is not the best idea. Have a great day and keep me posted! Happy growing my friend! :)
I live in zone 7b where our summers get in the 100Fs or 40c ish but in my bedroom where i keep my orchid the average temp is 74F to 75F, what would you recommend?
How do you know how much water each orchid likes?
Hi Julie! I watch the lower leaves. If they start getting wrinkled, I know the orchid needs a higher water level. I immerse mine about half way up the root system and that works well for me. Happy growing!
Thanks for your video. May you please tell me where do you buy water you are talking about? And what is a name of this water exactly? Thank you in a advance
Hi Linda! I use reverse osmosis filtered water. I have the filtration system installed under my sink, but a Brita filter would give you the same result. Happy growing! Amy
When is the right time to use this wc technique? Thanks
Hi..can I start a nursery orchid on full water culture right away? Also which is better, normal tap water or filtered/distilled water? You said you change the water once per week.
Paula from Mexico. Do you use Cal-Mag to feed to your Phaleonopsis??? Do you do foliage feed???
Hi, thank you for your video, I always love it, I have question, have you ever use superthrive for your water culture orchids ?
Hi and thanks so much for your kind words! :) I haven't used Superthrive on my orchids, I use Better Gro, and I've had really good results with it. Thanks again for watching and have a great day!
Ok thank you so much for your reply, have a wonderful day
Do you still grow your orchids in water?
No, I dont. It didn't work well for me long term.
Hello tks for doing this!!!!! What is the water culture?????
Hi Beatriz and thanks so much for watching! "Water culture" is simply good, quality water. There's nothing in it. That's why the orchids need regular fertilizing. Have a great day! :)
Thanx for telling me! I will research it. How does one know if indeed the orchid does like WC? Is it something in their roots? That would be the obvious since those are in water but yet I don't know. I will watch those videos you suggested and thanx!!!
Hi Dana! If you're going into late fall where you live, I would suggest you wait to do water culture in the spring. That's the best time to try it. The phals I have in water culture right now I converted in spring and summer and they have done the best. Also, try with a newly purchased phal. Those tend to convert much easier. You have to watch the roots with this growing method carefully. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
I keep my orchids in the ordinary tap water and they bloom and have new bloom shoots like crazy.
Hi, Thank you for putting this videos together. They're going to help a lot. We Live in a tropical environment. Regarding fertilizing, should I use a full teaspoon of 20-14-13 throughout the year...? our ambient temperature is seldom lower than 75 degrees.
Hi Jose and thanks so much for watching! Last summer, it was really hot here (90-100 degrees F) and I used one-half teaspoon of 20-14-13 on my phals. They grew really well at that rate. If you decide to use the full teaspoon, I'd try it on just one orchid and see how it does. One teaspoon of that fertilizer equals about 1100-1200 ppm, and that's really high. Happy growing! :)
I'm sure you've said this in a previous video....but why do you give them a dry period if they are in full water culture? Thanks for this terrific hands on video!!!
Hi Terry and thanks so much for your kind comment! :) Since I've been giving them 2 dry days a week, the root rot has stopped. They also need wet/dry cycles to grow properly...they grow much better for me this way. Thank you for your question, and have a great day my friend! Happy growing! :)
How long do you let the Phals sit in the RO at a time and how long is the dry spells? Is this routine only for root rot?
Hi Valentina! I have a video about how I care for my water culture orchids from Jan 17, 2018. I go over some specifics about the wet/dry cycles that will answer your questions. Thanks again for watching and have a great day! :)
I'm using the 20 14 13 on indoor orchids in swc, temp is between 50-70 night-day, how much fertilizer should I use per gallon of water
Hi Serena! I posted a current video in December 2020 about how I fertilize now. I use the same fertilizer recipe for WC, bark or moss. Thanks so much for watching...happy growing!
how often must one give firtilezer to orchids in the summer time
Hi Christina! I give them fertilizer often in the summer while they're growing, about once a week. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Orchid Whisperer thank you so much i will test
I have a question for you. It's about my vanda. I got it about 2 months ago and it had four leaves...now it has 2. I think the center of it is dying. What do I do? It is a young plant....but I love all orchids and want to see this vanda thrive! I'd appreciate your opinion!
Hi Dana! I have a video, "Vanda Day Video" publish date Sept 20, 2017 that I explain in detail how I care for my vandas. They require a lot of sunlight, fertilizer, and water to thrive. If the center of it is dying, just be aware that it's going to be hard to get it to turn around. If it looks like it's rotting, you need to decide if you want to take the risk of it being around your other orchids, too. Have a great day and thanks so much for watching!
Enjoyed this video 👍 .. btw how do u clean the leaves?
Hi and thanks so much for watching! I use a drop of dishwashing liquid on a damp paper towel. It's very easy, and very effective! Have a great day and happy growing!
Its late October here as well but it's only 12 degrees and there's a force 8 gale blowing ;-)
Hi Ynse...that's what I call COLD!! Have a great day and thanks so much for watching!
Hi have you ever used alkaline water for Orchid growing? Will it be a better medium? Thank you
Hi Verma! Yes, I used to use slightly alkaline water for my water culture. My orchids do much better at this pH. Thanks so much for watching and for your question! Have a great day! :)
Hello. I have a question. You mentioned putting a line so that you know how much water your Phal likes. How do you know what level they like? Do you look at the roots or leaves ? What exactly do you look for? I have moved 2 orchids to FWC and am unsure. Thank you and love your videos !
Hi! I have a video from March 31, 2017 that I explain about my water levels. In full water culture, you place about 1/3 of the roots in the water, and then you watch the plant to see if it likes that level. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. Water levels can be tricky! :) Have a great day and thanks again for watching!
Thank you so much for your reply! I will search for that video. Have a great day!
Do you think glass is better for an orchid than plastic?
Hi Jean! I grow mine in glass and in plastic, they both do very well. Thanks for your question and have a great day! :)
Hello! Thank you so much for your videos. I am very new to FWC but am very curious to try it. I was looking through some of your other videos on fertilizing and in one of them you say you only mist/fertilize your leaves but here you are soaking them 1/week. Which is better in a colder climate such as Canada?
Thank you very much!
Hi and thanks so much for watching and for your kind comment! :) When I first started water culture, there was very little info about fertilizing them, so I learned from experience. This is my latest video on fertilizing in water culture, and my most current information. It's still warm where I live here in Tennessee, and you have to take your climate into consideration. If you have a warm, sunny day, then fertilize on that day. If it's cold and snowing, you need to postpone fertilizing them, because it takes warmth and sun to break down the fertilizer. So just be aware this time of the year to be careful with your fertilizer regimen. Have a great day and happy growing!
Hello again! My orchids are adjusting beautifully, even in this cold! New roots are forming. I have bought 2 more small phals in the meantime and they are in mid bloom. I was wondering if transferring them to FWC is recommended when they are blooming? or should I wait for them to finish and then trim back the stem before transferring them?
hi, was watching your video and was wondering after hearing u say u save your phals water (her home water) after you fertilize. Im afraid to fertilize her shes my first water culture phal that i rescued from the grocery store. I soo want her to do well and i think now after maybe 4-6 months she's growing i see new roots and maybe even a flower spike not sure if it is yet. Anyhow when i water i pull her out of her little glass bowl and put brand new water in... Should i be saving whats left? Her home water and just add more? I love watching your videos. I want to thank you, you have given me great advice with my other two phals in moss. Just wondering about this. thanks again.
Hi Judy and thanks so much for your sweet comment! I truly appreciate that. I do save part of the existing water my orchids have been in (their home water) and use it along with about 50% fresh water. My orchids grow better that way. Thank you again for watching and happy growing! :)
I find it very confusing on saving water culture water & replacing with fresh water and then dry days...sorry but gets way to complicated and have to question why all that process is really necessary. Sorry but just curious about the whole process being so time consuming. Have grown orchids for years & not beginner.
Kricket Girl 😂 I hear ya. But not just orchids. Other plants, tropical/fresh water fish, trees, automobiles, crochet, cooking... it seems (to me) that anything and everything people do, there will eventually be some that that find complicated / extreme ways to set themselves apart and get that fame or try to get the initial rush from when they first started in what ever it is. Simple studs or hoop earrings are nice... noooo, let's attach them everywhere. Skiing is easy and beautiful. Nooooo, let's do 80mph down a mountain or fly 16' into the air in a halfpipe. A good set of vocal chords and band are beautiful... nooooo, queue Pink and Garth Brook doing aerial acrobatics over the crowd. Anyone can learn the basics and be successful but many then... 🙄
With aquariums and plants, I like the common trend I see where (to me) they get bored and then start messing with chemicals, specialized food regimens... trying for bigger, better, fancier bragging rights and viewtube dollars. 😎 God bless them all. I stick with the KISS principal, enjoy my consistent results in everything and then watch youtube for amusement.
shall one spray The fertilize allso on the roots
Hi Christina! Yes, you can spray the fertilizer on the roots. Happy growing!
Hello. I️ have a few of my phals in FWC and they have all been doing well for a while but lately I’ve been noticing that some of the roots are getting dark (not rotting). They are still firm but dark green almost black. Do you know why this happens or what I️ can do to avoid it?
Hi and I've had a similar experience with my FWC phals. I was spraying my roots with hydrogen peroxide, and I think it turned the roots dark. I stopped spraying the peroxide, and my roots don't do that anymore. I have a video that might help you, "What I've learned in more than a year of growing my orchids in water culture", publish date Aug 17, 2017. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
O my..I’m not a professional grower but hydrogen peroxide 3% is only used on roots or stalk of orchids to eliminate rot or green/black mold u typically see on orchids in bark that have been overwatered.
This is obviously not for beginners. I'm not savvy enough to know about water culture water & reverse osmosis water. I have no, nada, zilch, roots on my stem & just one wrinkled leaf & one tiny new leaf that I have hanging over water & I see Little tiny roots coming but I'm afraid I'm going to loose the one leaf. I don't know whether to spray with water more than once a day. I let it drink once a day by dipping it in water. I sprayed it with diluted kelp when I set it up but not since & that was about 3 days ago. It needs some serious help & I don't know if I'm knowledgeable enough for the challenge.
Hi Terry! You're very wise...I don't recommend water culture for beginners. It's tricky even for people who have grown orchids for many years. I suggest you start with a healthy orchid, and grow it in either orchid bark or moss. I have a beginner's orchid growers playlist on my channel to help you. I wish you lots of growing success! :)
Good afternoon. I am very sad t today... I repotted my phals and switched them from spagna moss to bark a couple weeks ago to prevent root rot, following another TH-cam advise that said that store bought plants had to be repotted immediately since most likely roots were already rotting. Well, the awesome healthy roots the plants had are now rotting... I am really in tears because they are my first attempt at growing orchids. What do you recommend, keeping them in the bark (I cleaned roots yesterday), switching them to moss or trying water culture? I appreciate your advice.
Hi! What I would do is leave them in bark at this point. Especially if you are going into the winter months, this is not a good time to repot. The roots will grow in the spring and establish in the pot. I wish you the best and please know that it takes time and usually many mistakes before you learn to grow orchids. So don't give up! Keep studying and learning, and you'll grow beautiful orchids. :) Have a great day!
Good evening. Thanks for your reply, I really appreciate it. I watched the video you released today ... wow, so many years growing! That explains why you make everything sound so smooth, so "flowing"... I really appreciate your kindness and willingness to share your knowledge. I will follow your advice and give the girls a chance. I never stopped to consider seasons really determine the time to repot, fertilize, etc. Ihave so much to learn ...Thanks again for your kind words. Many blessings to you and your family.
Please help:
Full water culture: 5 wet. 2 dry
Semi water culture: 5 dry. 2 wet. ?
Hi Bobbi! There's no "rules" about water culture...you can adjust it to suit your environment. FWC is usually about 1/3 of the roots in water...I use this much for my phals. But I let them have a day or two out of water each week because it decreases the root rot. SWC is about 2/3 of the roots in water, about 2 days wet and 4 or 5 days dry, or whenever your roots need to be watered. My water culture follows what my individual orchids need. And it changes from season to season. Thanks for your question, and have a great day! :)
Can you do water culture with rain water?
Hi Paula! Normally, I would say yes. And if you have a way to filter your rain water, I'd say yes. But I've heard from several growers who have found mosquito larvae floating around in their rain water culture, so be aware of that. I would be safe and use reverse osmosis filtered water, and reserve the rain water for fertilizing. (That would be a really good use for it.) Thanks so much for watching...have a great day! :)
What is 2014-13?
It's the chemical composition of my fertilizer. 20 parts Nitrogen, 14 parts phosphorus, and 13 parts potassium.
Hii, i thought you are not suppose to soak orchid root, they will rot ? that's why they have air root..
can you pls explain ?
thanks
andrew
Hi Andrew! I am growing this orchid in water culture. I have many videos on my channel where I explain this method. This is not an easy growing method, so growers need experience with orchids before trying it. I researched this method for months before I started growing in water culture. Have a great day and happy growing!
Was just thinking if the plant actually is able or will take much nutrients after its been soaking in its original water, then in fresh and only after that is offered nutrients for 30min?
I have been growing my orchid in water the Sam, I have now 5flower buds on the new stem, what should I do now, do I move it off the cold window sill & bring it in a warmer room, i live in UK I.O.W.
Hi Lynette! Once the buds start opening, you can move it into a room with bright, indirect light. If it's cold in your window sill, you probably need to move it back from the window...if the buds touch cold glass windows, the buds will drop. Thanks for watching and have a great day! :)
Orchid Whisperer , many thanks! 🤗
I cut off a spike from my phalaenopsis after it lost all its flowers. Can that spike, in water, grow more flowers?. Something is growing on the ends of the branches.
Hi Jean! I tried placing a spike in water like this to see what would happen. Mine grew for a while, then stopped. But it's worth a try and it's interesting to see that the spike stays green for a very long time in water. Keep me posted! Have a great day and thanks again for watching! :)
That was a mistake I made years ago and recently learned that stalk can form new buds & bloom again if u cut above the second node from the base of plant. That way eliminates the spent blooms on stalk but gives
energy to stalk to encourage new buds. Didn’t know that either until recently..it’s a learning curve for sure, lol
Hi could you make a video how you clean the leaves of orchids ?
Hi Hana! I'll be making that video this week! Thanks so much for watching and have a great day! :)
Thank you, I love to wacth your video 😘😘😘 have a great day
I love to grow orchids, but I don't know to start.
Hi Mellie! I have several beginner's videos on my channel, and here's a good video to start with: th-cam.com/users/edit?o=U&video_id=nRd9NgUfb_4
There are several other videos on my channel from Oct 2017 that are specifically beginner's videos that will also help you. I wish you much success with your orchid growing! :)
My orchids has method. What shall I do? Thank you
Hi Xiajing! I don't understand your question, what does your orchid have? Have a great day! :)
aku suka
Hi again and a very big thx for all this learning that u offer us.
My question for this time is how do u do to dilute your fertilizer ?
I have a liquid fertilizer type 646 and i saw in internet that is recommended to divide the first number on 5 and dilute 1 ml of this fertilizer on the number obtained in liters of water. So in my case 6 /5 = 1.2 so i have to dilute 1ml of my fertilizer in 1.2 liter of water.
I m a little lost and i m waiting your answer to know if im on the right path.
Hi Nejib and thank you for your kind comment! It sounds like you've calculated the amount correctly. This must be a very concentrated fertilizer. Thanks again for watching and have a great day! :)
How much ppm nitrogen do you use for your orchids in water culture (winters / summer) ?
For my phals, I use 125-150 ppm fertilizer twice a month in the winter. (I only fertilize on sunny days, I set them in a warm sunny windowsill so the nitrogen will break down.) In the summer, depending on the temps, I use 225-300 ppm weekly. (Not on rainy days.) They receive a lot of light in my orchid room (year-round) as well.
125-150 ppm of nitrogen or for the all the solution. Sorry for all this questions i m still beginner :)
You are wise to ask questions...feel free to ask! :) I feed 125-150 ppm of the solution. Thanks again for watching and have a great day!
Do u feed orchids when blooming
Hi April and thanks so much for watching! I go over this question in my video, "How to care for your phalenopsis orchid so it will rebloom", publish date Dec 4, 2017. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Funciona com todas as orquídeas? 💋❤
Sim
Funciona con todas las especies, pero a la misma vez ha dicho en algun video que hay algunas plantas individuales a las que no les gusta. Hasta que tengas mas experiencia practica con una orquidea que no sea tu favorita (dice ella en uno de sus videos).
Thank you for introducing this method of growing Orchids of which I'm very much like to try.I'm still not clear of what water to use.Is it ok to used tape water, rain water or plain bottle water from the shop? Please help, thank you.
Hi and thanks so much for watching! Just a heads-up on this growing method...do lots of research before you start. Some orchids do really well, and some don't. Especially if you're growing phals, that holds true. I have a video, "What I've learned in over a year of growing my orchids in water culture", publish date Aug 17, 2017 that you will find helpful. Also, it's easier to convert to water culture in the springtime. (Try a new phal, not one already in your collection.) I use triple filtered reverse osmosis water, you can also use plain bottled water. Have a wonderful day and happy growing! :)
Do u mean Tap water like city water? I have very hard water & always use very very small amt of fertilizer every time water. Orchid Society website AOS has good info on ‘weakly weekly’, simply use a fraction of recommend dose in water.
I'm from Australia, don't know what the fertiliser is your using, can you explain what it is
Hi Robyn and thanks so much for watching! The fertilizer I use is Better Gro Orchid Plus. It's chemical composition is 20-14-13. I buy it locally or on Amazon. I'm not sure if you can buy it in Australia, and that's why I refer to it as 20-14-13, so everyone will have a basis of comparison. The main thing is, to find a fertilizer formulated for orchids. Have a great day and happy growing! :)
Thank you for answering so quickly, I have always had a passion for orchids, I bought one when I was a teenager and had no idea what to do with it, I have recently bought a Phalaenopsis from the supermarket, have taken my daughters orchid that someone gave her I have no idea what it is she is not garden person, I have transferred it to water, as I love looking at the hole plant, I now have the bug I want to buy more, thank you once again about the fertilizing tips I will keep watching Aussie Robyn
I am new to the fwc method of growing orchids. This may be a stupid question but why are the containers always clear? Do the orchids need the light on their roots? Thanks for your great videos!
Hi and that's a good question! You can use any container that is color-fast. I use some of my decorative orchid pots with water culture, and I use plastic CD storage containers. The containers don't have to be clear. (I like to watch the roots grow, so that's why I use so many clear containers!) Have a great day and happy growing! :)
annreb90 lol..mostly bc u can clearly see the roots grow which is so helpful to ensure u r growing a healthy plant..pretty simple..
Por favor alguien me podría traducir este video al idioma Español pues tengo 3,orquídeas en agua y Creo que estos vídeos me aclararian mucho ,pues creo que explican el sistema para cuidar las en agua amiga o amigo le estaría muy agradecida gracias de antemano desde España
Queria tanto ouvir em portugues...
Why can't you just fertilize the water all the time?
Hi Johnny! I have an updated video on this topic...I've simplified and changed the way I fertilize my orchids in water culture. Here's the link to the new video: th-cam.com/video/druORzJTW4Q/w-d-xo.html
Thanks so much for watching and have a great day!