Phalaenopsis Orchid Care

Phalaenopisis

Orchid (Moth Orchid)

The moth orchid is the longest blooming and easiest orchid to grow. Typically, the phal will bloom for 3 to 5 months, given the correct care and environment.

Moth orchids enjoy an eastern window with some morning sun, but can be grown in a sunnier location given protection from harsh direct afternoon sunlight. A sheer curtain or lowered blinds should be sufficient.

Although Phalaenopsis are somewhat drought tolerant and like to dry out in between waterings, they have no pseudobulbs, no way of storing water, so proper watering is essential. In winter a four inch plant will probably need to be watered twice a week. A six inch plant, once. In summer the four inch will need water every three or four days. A six inch once a week. These are general guidelines. Every environment is different, so you may have to adjust your schedule. If you see wrinkled leaves or yellow leaves, this may be a sign of underwatering. Moss potted orchids stay moist for a longer period, so be aware. It is recommended by this author that orchids be repotted in bark as soon as possible to allow for better air circulation around their root systems.

An easy way to thoroughly water any orchid is to soak it in the sink or a bowl for five to ten minutes. Drain it, then return it to its home on the window sill.

Don't be alarmed if the velemen roots climb out of the pot or attach themselves to the pot. This is how they anchor themselves to trees. Most orchids do not grow in soil or the ground.

All orchids require high humidity and most growers or hobbyists recommend keeping them on a dry well or humidity tray. This is simply a saucer with pebbles in it. Keep it full of water, but don't let the plant sit in water. As the water evaporates, the humidity is raised.

Most orchids love to be fed. Feed them a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) three out of four waterings. The fourth watering will wash out any potential salt build up.

To bring a moth orchid into bloom there must be a 15 degree temperature differential between night and day for one month. This occurs naturally on the windowsill during winter. A bloomboster fertilizer also helps.

After your moth orchid finishes its bloom sequence there is a trick you can pull on it to get it to send out a side shoot of blooms. Cut the bloom stalk off between the last node (small rounded bump on the stalk) and where the first flower was attached to the stalk. Within a month a new shoot should appear. This is sucessful about 60% of the time and usually happens automatically if the stalk is accidentally broken near the top.

Please feel free to post questions, tips or pictures of your orchids here!