The moth orchid is perfect for growing at home because it not only absorbs excess moisture but also filters out toxic substances like formaldehyde from the air. Additionally, it is easy to care for and requires minimal attention. However, this plant may not thrive if neglected. Is there a way to help it grow vigorously?
According to the household living website “House Digest,” moth orchids are recognized as one of the easiest indoor plants to care for, often referred to as “indestructible” by many gardening centers and websites. They can tolerate low light, low humidity, and low temperatures, making them popular among many gardening enthusiasts.
However, just because they can survive does not mean they are growing well. If your moth orchid appears unchanged in size over the years, you may think it is growing slowly. But the truth is, moth orchids have a moderate growth rate and with a few adjustments, they can thrive.
So, how can you help your moth orchid grow at its fastest rate? First, you need to reconsider terms like “easy to care for,” “tolerant of shade,” and “indestructible.”
While moth orchids can indeed tolerate low light, they do not thrive in dim environments. Without sufficient sunlight, they cannot grow properly.
Moth orchids originate from West Africa and Central-West Africa, where they thrive in sunny, dry, rocky climates. In their natural habitat, moth orchids can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall. To promote rapid growth, you must ensure they receive the same amount of sunlight as they would in the wild.
Placing your moth orchid in a sunny spot, such as a south-facing window, can boost its growth. A good rule of thumb is to place it where it can see the sky, ensuring it gets enough sunlight. Additionally, avoiding overwatering is crucial.
Moth orchids are sensitive to overwatering and are prone to root rot. However, they still need water, and the correct watering technique can aid in their fast growth.
Some people only water their moth orchids occasionally, but this may mean the plant is not getting the necessary moisture. While it seems logical to avoid overwatering, the issue is often the frequency of watering rather than the amount of water. Instead of giving your orchid a little water, it is better to thoroughly saturate the soil and remove any excess water in the outer pot or drainage tray.
Moth orchids require regular watering in the summer but less so in winter. Make sure the soil is completely dry between waterings (water only when the soil is dry) and water the soil rather than the plant.
In addition to overwatering, soil type and drainage are crucial factors leading to root rot and other issues in moth orchids. To prevent damage or disease due to overwatering, plant them in well-draining soil.
Cactus soil or potting mix with added perlite is the ideal choice for planting moth orchids. By repotting, using the right soil, watering correctly, and placing them in a sunny location, moth orchids can grow rapidly and thrive.
It is worth noting that in 1989, NASA conducted a study on air purification, aiming to understand which indoor plants are most effective at purifying the air.
The study revealed that chemicals such as benzene, ammonia, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and xylene in the air are harmful to human health, potentially causing headaches, dizziness, eye irritation, and other health issues. Of the 18 plants listed in the study, some are capable of filtering out some or all of these chemicals.
Moth orchids are one of these 18 plants, capable of absorbing formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and xylene. (For more information, please click here: “What plants can purify the air at home? NASA tells you”).