Phalaenopsis Orchids

Phalaenopsis orchids are becoming more and more popular as houseplants due to their ease of culture and to their beautiful, long-lasting flowers. The name of phalaenopsis, means "moth-like", and in their native Philippines the wild species are also said to resemble flights of moths in the jungle. The modern Phalaenopsis hybrids are very colorful; some of them are pink while others are white with colored lips, yellow, spotted or striped like peppermint candy. The wedding favorites are generally large white flowers with yellow in the lip.

Watering:

We always recommend that plants potted in 3" pots in fir bark based mixes be watered about once every 3-5 days in the home; plants which are in 4" pots in fir bark based mixes be watered about once every 5-7 days in the home; and that plants potted in 5-6" pots in fir bark mixes be watered about once every 7-10 days in the home. Grow more 20-10-20 or Dyna-Gro 7-9-5 can also be added to the water once every month according to package instructions or may be mixed weaker than indicated on the package and used every second or third watering. We do recommend watering and fertilizing phalaenopsis potted in peat based mixtures such as Pro-Mix HP/Sponge Rock less than the same plants in fir bark based mixes. Extra watering or too much fertilizer will damage phalaenopsis; especially those who are in a peat based mix so the best practice would to water and fertilize lightly and not too often. Misting phalaenopsis in a peat-based mix is not recommended at all as it may increase the likelihood of fungal or bacterial problems.

Once the plants are watered, they should be placed so that the pots do not stand in water. Few people like to place the pots on "humidity trays" or in trays or saucers of gravel which helps to insure that the base of the pot is not immersed in water and provides some air circulation under the pot.

Lighting:

Always place the plants near a sunny window. When the plant is grown as houseplants, phalaenopsis needs bright and indirect light to do their best. Phalaenopsis and paphiopedilums does not require as much light as cattleyas, cymbidiums or vandas, but they do require at least the light required to bloom African Violets. The orchids will be comfortable at any temperature that is comfortable for humans (60-80 degrees). Always avoid cold or warm drafts - such as near an open window or heat vent.