Tips on How to Care for Phalaenopsis Orchids

If you think that these exotic plants are quite difficult to take care of, we have some great news – Phals are easily grown in the home and stay in bloom for a very long time. Before getting your first Moth Orchid into your home, you should definitely read this short care guide we have prepared.

Watering

Generally Phalaenopsis require watering about once every 4 to 7 days, but this is not a rule. The amount of water that you orchid needs depend mostly on the potting medium. Phals are usually grown in bark or moss, so if your orchid is potted in bark water once a week, if it is potted in moss, water when the top feels dry. There are other factors that will determine your watering routine, like light and heat. For example, in the summer months the plant will need more frequent watering while in winter it will need less. Another thing to have in mind is that it is best to water your phal in the morning. Here is how the process should go: place the plant in the sink and use tepid water, let the water run through the plant for a minute or so and be sure to let the plant drain completely.

Temperature

Phals will thrive best in a room with a daytime temperature of around 75°F and night temperature of 65°F. 95º F is the maximum temperature recommendation. Although occasional deviations will not harm your plant, this can be a problem when it is in bud – chilly temperatures may cause the plant to stop budding.

Find the Perfect Location

Once you have your Phalaenopsis plant in your home, it is time to place it in the perfect location. This means finding an an area that receives bright, indirect light. A moderately bright windowsill or similar spot would be perfect. Phals grow beautifully in an east window and can be grown in a south or west window if protected by a sheer curtain. The color of the phal’s leaves is a good light indicator – if they are olive green then the plant is getting enough light, if they are darker it means it is not getting enough light. Simple as that!

Humidity

Humidity is very important for moth orchids. They ideally require a humidity level of 55-75%. So how to increase moisture around your orchids? Simple place a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water under your plant. Make sure the pot does not sit in water as this will rot the roots.

Flowering

One of the things that makes Phals so popular is surely their blooming period which can last from 2 to 6 months. They are one of the longest blooming orchids. Phalaenopsis have also been known to bloom 2 to 3 times per year once they have reached a mature size. When the blooming period is over, don’t throw away your orchid because with just a little care it will flower again.