Orchid Care: Phalaenopsis

Lavish sprays of pink, white, yellow, red, spotted, or striped flowers, which remain fresh for many weeks, brighten the winter and spring scene. Phalaenopsis orchids appear fragile, but they are easy to care for and are considered to be ideal indoor orchids.

PHALAENOPSIS CULTURE

TEMPERATURE Phalaenopsis orchids, also called moth orchids, need to be consistently warm, with daytime temperatures between 70–80°F and 60°F or above at night. During the autumn, keep them around 60°F for 4 to 6 weeks to encourage flower formation.

LIGHT Orchids prefer indirect light from an east-facing window. A north-facing, or shaded south-facing window will also work. Phalaenopsis need mostly shady light conditions during the summer and filtered bright (never sunny) conditions in the winter.

WATER Keep moderately moist all year round. The planting medium should never be allowed to dry out completely. Use only soft, lukewarm water. Never water the center of the plant as this brings the danger of rotting. Spray the leaves often to ensure that humidity is high - this is particularly important for Phalaenopsis species. This is an orchid that will appreciate having its pot set on a dish filled with pea gravel or small stones, with water reaching the top of the gravel for extra humidity.

FERTILIZING Phalaenopsis should receive applications of diluted orchid-specific 20-20-20 fertilizer, especially in the spring and summer. In the autumn, switching to bloom booster fertilizer, coupled with cooler nights, induces plants to set buds and flower.

POTTING Phalaenopsis orchid roots need plenty of air. Plant in a coarse medium that is permeable to both air and water, such as medium-grade (1/2” to 3/8”) fir bark with a very small amount of peat, charcoal, and perlite or sponge rock. Repot every 14 to 18 months. High-quality fir bark (without wood chunks) can last 2 years. Commercial orchid potting mixes are also available. Soak any potting medium overnight before planting. When repotting, choose a new pot only slightly larger than the old one.