For orchid lovers, how to properly water orchids has always been a university question. Many novices often do not understand the water absorption mechanism of orchids, resulting in their beloved orchids either "drying up" or "waterlogging". In order to help you better understand the mechanism of water absorption by orchids, today we will take a closer look.
First of all, we need to understand that orchids absorb water from the planting material mainly through their thick root system. These roots have a large surface area and a wide contact surface with soil moisture, ensuring that the orchid can effectively absorb the required water. This water is essential for the growth and development of orchids, metabolism and transpiration.
So, how does the orchid absorb water? In fact, there are two main dynamic mechanisms at work: one is the passive water absorption caused by the water potential difference, and the other is the active water absorption of ions.
To put it simply, when the leaves of the orchid lose water through transpiration, the root system of the orchid needs to replenish water from the planting material to the leaves. At this time, the water potential inside the Langen will be lower than that at the end of the planting material, creating a water potential gradient. Water will follow this gradient and flow naturally into the root of the root. In this process, the root system of the orchid does not play a driving role, so it is called passive water absorption.
However, if the planting material is too dry, the water potential inside the planting material will be even lower than that inside the root. At this time, water will flow out from the root of the orchid into the planting material, resulting in a lack of water and wilting of the orchid leaves.
Active water absorption is a different story. Even in the absence of low water potential traction caused by transpiration, the roots of orchids draw water from the planting material. This water absorption process requires the respiration of the orchid to provide energy and promote the active absorption of ions. When the ion concentration in the Langan cell is higher than the ion concentration in the planting material, the water potential inside the Langan decreases, which attracts the water in the planting material into the Langen. In this process, the water still flows along the water potential difference.
It is important to note that while orchids can provide energy through photosynthesis of their leaves, their roots still need to respire to obtain energy in the dark. If there is serious water accumulation in the orchid pot or the planting material is not breathable, it will lead to a lack of oxygen in the pot, which will affect the normal respiration of the orchid root and the active absorption of ions. This not only hinders the normal absorption of water, but may also produce alcohol that is toxic to the root cells, seriously affecting the healthy growth of orchids.