Phalaenopsis

Also known as moth orchid; this genus with 60+ species but has hundreds of hybrids.  They are native to Southeast Asia.

They adapt quickly to every home because they enjoy the same envirnmental conditions that we enjoy. These characteristics make them the ideal beginner’s orchid!! From all the orchids sold worldwide, 75% are Phalaenopsis.  They are the most popular orchid because of their easy care and because their big and colorful flowers can last for months.

Their leaves are big, some are solid green and some have patterns; some leaves can have a tint of purple.  Their silvery roots are thick and attach themselves firmly to the media they’re being grown in.  The growing root tip is bright green or reddish-purple; once wet, the roots should turn bright green.

knowing your orchid:

general care:

WATER: Phalaenopsis roots must never dry put between waterings.  It’s important to water them only in the mornings with room temperature water so that the leaves and new growths have time to dry before the temperature drops in the evening.  Excess water can be a focus of infection and can damage the plant.  The frequency of waterings will depend on your climate and the time of the year; waterings should be more frequent and abundant during the hot months and if your climate is dry, you may need to water up to 3 times a week, fertilizing only once a week. During the winter and in cold zones, the watering and the feedings can be spaced every 7 to 10 days to avoid root rot. It will also depend on the type of media you’re growing them in.

RELATIVE HUMIDITY:  

50% – 60%.  

If your HR is to high, it’s very important to have good ventilation to prevent diseases.  To increase your HR, please visit our post  “Tips to increase Relative Humidity“.

TEMPERATURE: 

Día: 70ºF – 80ºF

Noche: 60ºF – 65ºF  

It’s ideal that there is a difference of 15ºF to 20ºF between day and night temperatures to promote new growths (leaves, stems and roots). If your temperature is higher that the ideal, you’ll have to increase the RH, airing and waterings, to avoid premature withering of the flowers and buds and the dehydration of your plant.

LOW TO MEDIUM LIGHT: Using the Shadow Trick (see Basic Care: Light Issues section), the shadow from your hand should be very light to light grey, not completely defined; if the shadow is darker, that spot is not for this orchid.  NEVER IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT!!  Ideal locations: east, south or west facing windows with a sheer curtain.

ARTIFICIAL LIGHT:  four tube 40 watt fluorescent fixtures placed 6″ to 12″ above the leaves for 10 to 12 hours a day.

These are the IDEAL conditions, however, orchids are more adaptable than we think!!  You’ll just have to put a bit more effort accommodating them in their new environment.  Look for tips in our Magazine!

to know more about nutrition, growing media and basic care, click below: