<![CDATA[Humidity and Orchids]]>Do orchids need humidity?

*Above picture is my orchids on humidity trays

 

Orchids LOVE humidity! The natural environment of an orchid is a hot, humid and rainy jungle. In this environment orchids are naturally designed to have their leaves funnel rain and humidity down to their roots.

Because of their need for humidity, I place my orchids on humidity trays. As the water in the humidity tray evaporates, it rises thereby increasing the humidity around the plant. Humidity trays allow water to collect in the base while the plant is suspended ABOVE the water, so their “feet” aren't wet. Orchids do not like to have their roots and the bottom part of their pots soaking in water. Most house plants like water left in their saucers. NOT ORCHIDS, their roots will rot if this happens and they will die!

Orchids are also very social, in that they benefit from being close together because this helps to raise the humidity among the plants. Orchids love humidity and air movement. Just think about where they normally live! Try to have a good balance of humidity and air movement. Not too much and not too little:)

You can buy a humidity tray or you can make one from a pan filled with stones. I purchased the three tier tray from rePotme and I also have made my own.

If you live in a super dry house you may even want to put a small humidifier near your orchids. I can going to try this over the summer:)

Hope that helps,

Hannah

Feel free to leave comments or questions.

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