When it comes to soaking orchid bark, I’ve found that it’s best to have the water level come up just below the lip of the pot. This way, the bark mixture doesn’t spill out and make a mess. I usually fill the pot with water until it reaches this level.
Once the pot is filled with water, I let the orchid bark soak for about 10 minutes. This gives the bark enough time to become saturated and absorb the water. I find that this duration works well for most types of orchids, but it may vary depending on the specific needs of your orchid. It’s always a good idea to check the care instructions for your particular orchid to see if there are any specific soaking recommendations.
After the soaking period, it’s important to allow the water to drain out completely. Orchids like a good soak, but they don’t tolerate sitting in water. I usually let the excess water drain out by tilting the pot slightly or using a drainage tray. This ensures that the orchid roots aren’t sitting in stagnant water, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
The soaking process for orchid bark is relatively simple. Just remember to have the water level below the lip of the pot, soak for about 10 minutes, and allow the water to drain out completely. By following these steps, you can provide your orchid with the proper amount of water and help it thrive.