Humidity
January, in the colder states, means furnaces putting in overtime, pumping out a constant stream of hot air. When this happens, the climate in our homes and growing areas can become quite dry. It is during this time that we must pay more attention to the humidity levels surrounding our orchid collection.
More frequent watering may be necessary to keep your plants properly hydrated. Humidifiers can also be utilized to keep the humidity up. This not only helps to keep our complexions youthful, but also lets our orchids retain the moisture they need for optimum growth.
Humidity trays are another great tool. One can group plants on top of these trays, water them in place, and the tray will catch the excess water below. This water then evaporates upwards, in and around your plants, providing the moisture they desperately need this time of year.
Small, in-home fountains are another option to keep moisture in the air. Any standing or running water will evaporate quickly in a dry home, and increase the moisture level for your plants.
If you use fans in your growing area, you might want to turn them off during the drier months, except perhaps immediately after watering. Fans will only dry out the air, and thusly, your plants. Turn the fans on again in the summer, when humidity levels are high and the extra air movement is necessary.
Another way to keep your humidity levels at the optimum level is to simply buy more plants! A group of plants grown closely together, transpiring moisture among themselves, raises humidity levels considerably in your growing area. As they always say, "Humidity loves company," (or something like that....).
A boost in humidity will help your plant grow better, bring life and beauty into your home, and keep your skin soft and youthful (it's getting deep in here, huh?). Allow your orchids to help get you through these long winter months by adding beauty to your life!
