How to care for a Phalaenopsis orchid
How to cut a phalaenopsis orchid
Phalaenopsis orchids, also known as moth orchids, are among the most popular orchids in the world and thousands of Phalaenopsis orchids are produced each year for the tropical flower trade. 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?
In the wild, you will typically see Phalaenopsis orchids growing on tree branches in humid lowland forests where the canopy shelter them from the harsh sun. 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 your Phalaenopsis orchids once a week while making sure not to pour any water on the Phalaenopsis orchid itself. Over watering can lead to mould and root rot.
For how long will a Phalaenopsis orchid bloom?
Phalaenopsis orchids can bloom for several weeks and it is not uncommon for them to last for two or three months indoors, provided of course that you give them proper Phalaenopsis orchid care year round. If you give them good care they might flower several times 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. Ideally dilute the fertilizer and server over a period of time instead of all at once. Phalaenopsis orchids do not need a resting period.
Repotting a Phalaenopsis orchid
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. Only water scarcely for the first few weeks after repotting as the roots might hvae been damge and need time to heal.
Replace mediums that stops draining properly or smell funny at once.
Recommended room temperature
As a rule of thumb, Phalaenopsis orchids will prefer a day temperature of 75-85° F or 24 – 29 C and a night temperature that is somewhat lower. Make sure the temperature never 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.
