I started buying them a few years ago since the blooms last so long. The ice cube watering method was mentioned, but I felt like it wasn't enough - the roots are not suppose to dry out! So I water over the sink, lightly - maybe 1/3 cup water each, once a week. Hold over/leave out of pot a few minutes to let drain. Tilt left and right to drain more, then place plastic pot back into decorative pot. Always empty decorative pot so roots don't sit i water- they don't like to get too wet. I now have 4 with leaves that have grown a good bit, but not rebloomed yet. Two miniature ones purchased recently don't have holes in the pots or removable plastic pots, so I worry about them getting to wet.

ah-ha! you're right arthurm2015! super thick leaves -- and the photos do look like my flowers. Well, they've been very happy with the ice cubes for 3 months -- and since I'm a newbie I'll continue until one says 'no good' -- if I get too adventuresome with the watering, I'll probably kill them -- since my ritual with my other house plants is a good soaking with a platter underneath for extra. :-) It sounds like that won't do with orchids - thanks much for the information!

dvd94,

When the orchids tell you it's 'no good' it will probably be too late. All roots will have probably died/rotted by that point and reviving them from that situation is difficult at best. If you go this route, be sure to check for healthy roots regularly.

There are hundreds of places that sell phals, I only know of the 'Just Add Ice' grower to advertise that method of watering. But I always say, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it"!

Allison,

Soak those puppies good at the sink and then let them drain well. The thorough soaking washes out the old minerals/salts and such that build up over time.

Good luck,

Bob

Thanks, Bob! Of course I'm sure others have discovered this -- but I tested it yesterday: 4 ice cubes is about a 1/3 cup of water. So a 1/3 of a cup every week is probably about right to ensure moisture but not over watering -- along with a good soaking for that mineral stuff on occasion, too. I'm guessing the 'ice cube' grower figured it's easier for the average person to put 4 ice cubes in the pot than measure a 1/3 cup -- because most people would eventually just guess at 1/3 cup rather than find a measuring cup. I know I find it easy enough to do. :-)

Thank you, Bob. I sure will. Once we move, I'm planning on becoming a more serious indoor gardener again.