Question
Jim,

I was reading a couple of postings where people where commenting about their water's sodium level.

I am wondering how I can check it and also what is safe for my orchids (phals, cattleyas, oncidium, and cymbidium). I would like to make sure my house's water is adequate.

My plants are doing well thus far. Sometimes I collect rain water and water my plants with it along with 20-20-20.

Thanks.
Angelo
Orlando, Florida

Answer
Hi Angelo,

The easiest way to check the quality of your water is to ask the local water company.  By law, all water districts must check and analyze the water they distribute.  In most cases, these water reports are free to residents.  

Ideally, what you want is water that has under 50 ppm sodium but it is okay up to 100 ppm.  

If you are using strictly rain water, you have nothing to worry about as to quality as rain water is the best and safest water to use for orchids.  It doesn't get any better!  (grin)  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.