The orchid's popularity is greatly attributed to its beautiful flowers. In order to produce such flowers, plants require a proper amount of watering.  There are thousands upon thousands of types and species of orchids, it is important to know up front how much water your particular orchid requires so that its flowers bloom fully and continuously.  So how do you know how much water your orchids need? This part of caring for your orchid is crucial to its long-term health and blossoming phase.  A look into the origins of the orchid species will help you better understand their natural state and environment.

The orchid is generally found in tropic climates around the world.  These orchid-rich locations rain heavily throughout the year.  Subsequently, the orchid is exposed to dense moisture in this type of habitat.  This level of humidity (80%) – although ideal for orchids – is not suitable for the indoor home environment where you may live.  However, the 80% humidity level where orchids flourish can be recreated with simple materials you will find in your home or any local store.  If you follow the easy steps below, you will have successfully simulated a tropic, humid environment and will ensure the proper watering of your orchid flower so it can blossom and bear beautiful flowers:

1. Buy deep plate/saucer and rocks/pebbles
2. Place pebbles into saucer
3. Place pot with orchid onto pebbles
4. Place water into saucer
5. Prevent water level from reaching bottom of orchid pot

A common fault many people make when they are tending to their orchid is giving it too much water.  The reason why many make this mistake is because they assume a pot full of dry soil is not good for the plant.  However, when it comes to orchid plants, this could not be further from the truth.  The bark that an orchid is potted with retains water like a sponge.  When the orchid uses up water from the surface area of the bark, it gives off the illusion that the bark is dry when in fact it is not.  Going back to the orchid's origins - it naturally grew out of tree trunks or branches.  Therefore, the orchid plant is accustomed to going for long periods without water. When your are caring for an orchid you should also be careful as not to fertilize it too often.  While watering your orchid requires a light and consistent feed, fertilizing the plant must be done sparingly.  The fertilizer can generally be found at any gardening store.  If you establish a schedule for tending to your orchid, you will ensure that the plant is well nurtured and you'll reap the rewards of its wonderful flowers.

In summary, the orchid plant will flourish with the right maintenance and care – namely the proper amount of bark for potting the orchid, the sparing use of water and fertilizer, and the proper exposure to sunlight.  Their beauty and enjoyment however can be unpredictable.  Yet, if you utilize the aforementioned suggestions, you will be able to watch its unfolding and cultivate your exotic orchid plant with minimal complications.