Phalaenopsis Orchids - Plants and species

Phalaenopsis orchids are a group of tropical orchids. Popular species include Phalaenopsis amabilis or 'Moon Orchid', Phalaenopsis gigantea from Borneo and the newly discovered Phalaenopsis venosa.

Phalaenopsis Orchids were probably the first popular orchid species for growing indoors as they are fairly easy to grow.

Basic requirements are warm temperatures and humidity. Numerous hybrids now are available although Phalaenopsis Doris was the first. Information on Potting, Light, Watering Fertilizing and Pests, Diseases and Care for Phalaenopsis Orchids

Phalaenopsis Orchid care and growing hints.

Phalaenopsis orchid care means providing a warm humid climate, Phalaenopsis orchids are originally from the Philippines, and South East Asia.

For most os the growing season Phalaenopsis orchids require a minimum night temperature of 15C. A glass house situation is ideal however many people grow Phalaenopsis orchid indoors.

Potting and Repotting Phalaenopsis Orchids

An open free draining potting mix is essential for Phalaenopsis Orchids. A medium Pine bark mix is excellent. 10 -20mm is OK. Repot every 3-4 years and be careful as the roots of these plants are a little brittle. Try not to 'overpot'. The roots will start to grow out side the pot eventually, a sure sign that repotting is required.

Light requirements for Phalaenopsis Orchids

Here we try to mimic nature, filtered light is best. Filtered light is best as Phalaenopsis orchids come from a rainforest So although a window sill is fine, direct light is not, a fine curtain will filter the light as will open shrubs outside the window.

Watering Phalaenopsis Orchids

Place the pot on a saucer filled with stones so that water is below the pot, this creates humidity, water in the morning daily. Watering of Phalaenopsis orchid is easy, just remember they must not dry out, and must not become water logged, it is better to water the orchids in the pot than to spray. Add some diluted fertilizer to the watering regime every 2-3 weeks. Slow release fertilizer is also OK. Try not to over fertilise

Flowering and Blooming Phalaenopsis orchids

These orchids will flower in Autumn and again in spring given the right conditions. Tall spikes of up to 10 blooms are common once established. Phalaenopsis orchids can be pruned after the first flush of flowers begins to fade to encourage a second flush.