The cultivation of healthy orchid roots and leaves can be facilitated by a simple but effective technique: soaking orchid leaves in water.
Orchids, known for their beauty and delicacy, can be challenging to care for, especially when it comes to growing new roots and leaves. This method facilitates the development of robust roots and leaves.
Steps to soak orchid leaves in water:
- Preparation:
- Clear the soil and cut off any damaged roots from the orchid leaves.
- Disinfect the leaves by using a small crushed garlic clove in half a liter of water. Filter the water to remove the garlic pieces and apply the solution to the leaves with a cotton pad.
- Root immersion:
- Immerse the orchid roots in a glass of water for 30 minutes using the previously prepared garlic-infused water.
- Then dry the plant and place it upside down in a plastic jar. Make holes in the top of the jar so the plant can breathe and retain moisture at the bottom.
- Irrigation and fencing:
- Pour tap water into the glass, making sure not to fill it completely. Pour in enough water to cover only the first part of the leaves.
- Close the jar with another jar and leave the plant in this state for 45 days.
During this time, the orchid’s roots will strengthen significantly. To maintain their health, spray the roots with tap water every three days. After another 75 days, the roots will be healthy and robust, signaling that the plant is ready for transplantation.
Transplantation process:
Before transplanting, water the plant and let it soak in the remaining garlic water for 30 minutes. Use pine bark as a base in the new pot when transplanting.
Why does putting orchid leaves in water work?
- Root stimulation:
- Soaking the leaves in water stimulates root growth.
- Natural disinfectant:
- Garlic acts as a natural disinfectant and prevents diseases that could affect the roots and leaves.
- Ventilation and humidity:
- The glass with holes allows the plant to breathe and retain the moisture necessary for growth.
- Nutrient intake:
- Healthy, strong roots facilitate nutrient uptake, which is crucial for growth.
- Regeneration and development:
- This method is particularly beneficial for plants that have suffered root damage or are growing in unsuitable soil, allowing them to regenerate and develop healthily.
- Infection prevention:
- The garlic-water solution used before soaking prevents fungal and bacterial infections.
- Moisture retention:
- Regularly spraying the roots with water helps keep the environment moist, which is crucial for orchids accustomed to tropical and humid conditions.
- Advantages of a transplant:
- Repotting into a new pot with pine bark promotes water drainage and air circulation around the roots, contributing to the overall health of the plant.
