"The idea is that as the ice melts it slowly releases water, giving the roots time to absorb it and avoiding soggy soil. The method This trick works best for small pots and moisture-sensitive plants such as orchids. But most tropical houseplants dislike cold. Their roots evolved for warmth, and icy water can shock or damage them. Room temperature plays a big role in how effective this method is:"
"I tried this on a Phalaenopsis or moth orchid. Two cubes a week kept the roots evenly damp without sogginess, but using the same trick on a Calathea caused browning at the leaf edges, a clear sign of cold stress. The verdict The ice cube method can work for orchids, but it isn't suited to most tropical houseplants and depends heavily on room temperature. So I won't be using this hack; tepid water poured slowly remains the most reliable way to hydrate your plants."
Many houseplants suffer from overwatering because frequent watering keeps soils excessively wet. Placing one or two ice cubes on the soil is intended to melt slowly, releasing water gradually so roots can absorb it and avoid soggy conditions. The method suits small pots and moisture-sensitive plants such as orchids. Most tropical houseplants prefer warm conditions; cold water and lingering ice can shock roots and damage foliage. Room temperature affects melting speed: warm rooms negate the slow-release benefit while cool rooms risk prolonged root chilling. Clean, fresh water should be used for ice, and cubes must not touch stems or roots. Tests showed orchids tolerated two cubes weekly, while a Calathea exhibited cold stress.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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