Key facts:-
Type : Flowering orchid
Plant size : Matured plant
Phalaenopsis orchids are one of the most popular and easy-to-care-for orchid species. Here's a comprehensive guide on Phalenopsis orchid care and potting:
*Lighting:*
- Bright, indirect light (east- or west-facing windows)
- Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause leaves to become scorched
*Watering:*
- Water once a week in the summer and once every 10-14 days in the winter
- Use lukewarm water (around 70-80°F/21-27°C)
- Watering should be done in the morning, allowing the potting medium to dry slightly between waterings
*Humidity:*
- Maintain a humid environment (40-70% relative humidity)
- Use a humidifier or group plants together to create a microclimate
*Temperature:*
- Daytime temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Nighttime temperature: 55-65°F (13-18°C)
*Fertilizing:*
- Feed with a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer (20-20-20)
- Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength
- Apply once a month
*Potting:*
- Use a well-draining potting medium (e.g., sphagnum moss, perlite, or a mix specifically designed for orchids)
- Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the plant's root system
- Repot every 2-3 years in the spring when the plant becomes pot-bound
*Potting mix recipe:*
- sphagnum moss
- charcoal
- coconut husk (optional)
*Repotting steps:*
1. Gently remove the plant from its pot
2. Trim away dead or damaged roots
3. Place a small amount of potting medium in the new pot
4. Position the plant in the pot, ensuring the rhizome (thick stem) is above the potting medium
5. Fill in the potting medium around the roots, gently firming it in place
6. Water thoroughly after repotting
*Additional tips:*
- Monitor for pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale
- Prune flower spikes after blooming to encourage a new bloom
- Provide air circulation to prevent fungal diseases
By following these guidelines, you should be able to provide your Phalanopsis orchid with the care it needs to thrive. Good luck!
