Care for the Phalaenopsis Orchid
Phalaenopsis orchid care is not as hard as some want you to believe. Claimed to be one of the favorites of all orchids and they are simple to grow and very beautiful. Some, I must say, are a challenge. However, this genus can take a little abuse and still smile back at you. As far as sunlight is concerned it will take a short burst of light but is favorable to modest to low lighting. Too much light will eventually harm the tender leaves. Some are called epiphytes, it derives moisture and nutrients from the air and rain; usually grows on another plant but not parasitic on it which also will provide good shade. Place in west or east windows for best results. A hearty moth orchid has bright green leaves, if they are dark green leaves, you must provide more light. The temperature range for this plant is ideally 24 to 29 C (75 to 85 F). If it dips down by 15 to 20 degrees F, this is optimal. If these temps are not available outside then bring them in to the house or keep in greenhouse. Whenever your orchid is blooming, maintain the temperature above 70 degrees.
Another part for Phalaenopsis orchid care is the need for water is a must, they smile with lots of water. The roots need water at all times and will frown when too dry. Really, watering weekly is sufficient. A small quantity of small rocks in pot bottom will be beneficial. The potting medium influences how often you water. If using a peat mixture, you will know to water if the top one inch is dry. Avoid watering the orchid center as it will rot if you do. As far as feeding, there are many good organic fertilizers out there that are used like 'Roseglo'. Most pots I use have medium sized wood bark as medium for the plant and that provides support but lack nutrients. A good idea is to repot every 2 years to avoid congestion and you will see that they grow upwards not outwards so a large pot is not needed. After the beautiful blooms fall off cut them at the halfway mark and they will reward you with new blooms. After a short period of time they will start blooming twice yearly. They are sometimes known as moth orchids because the resemble moths or butterflies. With Phalaenopsis orchid care providing these simple and quick care techniques will reward you for years to come. Return from phalaenopsis orchid care to the Home page.
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Humidity is essential because they like 60 to 70% and we are not comfortable for too long at these numbers. You may have to provide a water tray or spray several times a day or a standard cool air humidifier to achieve best results. Important is moisture surrounding the plants. If the humidity level goes below 50%, the flowers and buds will drop too soon.
