How to care for a Phalaenopsis orchid
Wednesday, December 16th, 2009How to cut your orchids to promote flowering
One of the most popular types of orchids are the Phalaenopsis or moth orchids and millions are produced each year for the flower market. The genus contains a large number of hybrids and cultivars as well as 60 scientifically described species. In the wild they are found in northern Australia and Asia. Phalaenopsis orchids do not have pseudobulbs.
Phalaenopsis orchid light requirements?
Phalaenopsis orchids usually grow on tree branches protected from the most intense sun by the canope of the tree it grows on. In our homes, Phalaenopsis orchids tend to prefer indirect sun light and intense sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm can even cause injury by burning the leaves.
Replanting the Phalaenopsis orchid?
As mentioned above, Phalaenopsis orchids tend to grow on tree branches, and there are also a few species that live on stones. The Phalaenopsis orchids do not like damp soil and it is important to chose a medium that drains well. Water once a week and never give the orchid more water than what is required to keep the potting medium moist right below the surface. Over watering can lead to mould and root rot.
Phalaenopsis orchid flowering?
Phalaenopsis orchid flowers can last for a very long time, up to 2-3 months with the proper Phalaenopsis care year round. If its requirements are met, it is possible for a Phalaenopsis orchid to bloom more than once a year. Giving you orchids large amount of fertilizer will not aid flowering and might end up damaging or killing the plant. A teaspoon of high-nitrogen fertilizer per month is usually enough. You should if possible dilute the fertilizer and give your orchids a little each time you water instead of giving them more once a month. Phalaenopsis orchids do not need a resting period.
Changing the medium
Phalaenopsis orchids rarely outgrow their pots since they grow upwards instead of spreading out. But it is still good to change the substrate every two years to prevent mold and fungi to infect the medium. When you have repotted your orchid the new roots needs time to establish themselves so only water scarcely.
A potting medium that smells strange, is mouldy, or doesn’t drain well should be replaced immediately.
Recommended room temperature
Phalaenopsis orchids do best in temperatures areound 75-85° F or 24 – 29 C allthough they accept a little lower temperatures during the nights. Never let the temperature drop below 60° F or 16 C.
Phalaenopsis orchids are hardy plants and will normally survive even if you make a mistake or two like. opening a window during the cold season. The flower bud is more sensetive than the rest of the plant and good care is extra important during this period. Continuously being subjected to temperatures that are too low can kill a Phalaenopsis orchid, make it susceptible to illness or make it stop budding all depending on how low the temperature is.