Phalaenopsis Orchid Care and Maintenance

Phalaenopsis is one of the most demanding orchids in the flower industry. A genus comprising more than 50 species, it forms the base for development of various hybrid cultivars. Phalaenopsis is indigenous to the southeastern parts of Asia, where they are found at elevated altitudes. The ease in growing and inducing flowers make this orchid a preferred choice for hobbyists. In short, Phalaenopsis orchid care requires less effort, as compared to other orchids.

Tips for Maintaining Phalaenopsis Orchids

In the natural habitat, most Phalaenopsis species are found growing as epiphytes under the canopy of large trees, while a few of them get adapted to rocky surfaces. The care instructions for Phalaenopsis orchids are focused on providing optimal growth conditions that mimic the original habitat. Refer to the care guidelines for maintaining healthy growth and timely flowering of Phalaenopsis orchids.

Purchasing Orchid
Since the demand for this orchid is very high, commercial production has become a business in recent years. In plant supply centers, Phalaenopsis orchid is sold as container plants. Check for disease and pest tolerance varieties. You can purchase healthy plants having bright green leaves and a strong root system. Follow the correct orchid growing tips, while planting in indoors.

Light Exposure
The Phalaenopsis orchid prefers to grow in partial shade to full shade condition, just like its natural habitat. Hence, exposure to low light intensity or filtered light (12,000-20,000 Lux) is optimal for this flowering plant variety. Avoid exposing the orchid to full sunlight, or else, the plants will develop yellow spots (sun scalding) in the leaves.

Humidity Levels
High humidity, at least 60-70 percent, is a must for healthy growth of Phalaenopsis orchid. In case of low humidity levels, take some marbles or decorative stones in a shallow tray. Pour water in the tray and place the potted orchid in it, over the marbles. Doing so will help in increasing the humidity, while preventing absorption of water by the potting media.

Favorable Temperature
Coming to temperature range, warm condition (25-35 degrees C) is ideal for Phalaenopsis orchid maintenance. However, it also performs well within the temperature range, 25-30 degrees C. For maintaining air movement inside the room, you can put on the ceiling fan at low-speed for a few hours every day.

Irrigation Frequency
Correct watering is the most crucial orchid care tips for novice gardeners. Irrigate the potted Phalaenopsis orchids deeply with tap water. For next irrigation, wait till the top soil layer dries out. Excess watering will cause rotting of the roots, which can be identified from yellowish coloration of foliage.

Applying Fertilizer
An all-purpose liquid fertilizer can be applied once, in every two weeks. Make sure that the concentration is not high. If it is so, it will cause burning effects to the roots and later, to the upper parts. Also, consider watering the orchid plant after fertilization.

Pruning Time
Phalaenopsis orchid pruning is best done after the blooming period is over. The flowering time lasts for about 3 months. As the flower stalk starts withering, cut it off at the base with the help of sharp scissor, without injuring the remaining plant parts. This will help conserve nutrients for the next blooming period.

Phalaenopsis Orchid Repotting
Changing the pot is expected, if the orchid spreads profusely in the container and you think that there is outgrowth of roots in the original container. Repotting orchids can be done during cold winter months. Dig the soil away from the stem and uproot it gently. Trim the roots, and if required, separate the plants and grow them in suitable sized pots.

So, isn't Phalaenopsis orchid care and maintenance easy for you? Under the condition that basic orchid care and maintenance tips are followed, it will bear beautiful blooms under artificial growing conditions. And you will get to enjoy its beautiful flowers for as long as three months.