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Sometimes, even with the best intentions at heart, we can cause problems! When we spray our orchids to provide more humidity we have to be careful not to over do it and make sure there isn’t a deposit of water left in the crown or the crannies of the plant to avoid rot.
There are other aspects to review as well. We do not recommend spraying the plants when they are getting the highest light of the day because the drops can act as minifying glasses and can provoque sunburns. Also, it’s important to provide good ventilation to avoid bacterial or fungal infections, specially when we are talking about genus with thin leaves like Cymbidium, that are more susceptible to these infections than Phalaenopsis, for example.
Regarding the last point, a good way to avoid transferring bacteria and pathogens is to treat the water we are spraying them with before doing so. You can use the same product you use to disinfect your vegetables when making yourself a salad!! We use Microdyn®, a highly effective disinfectant. It’s main component is Stable Ionized Silver. Look for whatever brand you have in your kitchen!!
Extra tip: when you have put cut flowers in a vase, apply a few drops of this disinfectant also; the water will stay fresh longer and your flowers will last longer as well!
*For every quart of water, add one drop of Microdyn®.