With very attractive flowers on arching stems, Phalaenopsis stuartiana may have smaller flowers than some other species however elegant with attractive markings. Fragrance is very faint. it is the flowers and mottled patterns on the foliage that are the attraction.
Being from tropical to sub tropical climates and also being epiphytic, warm temperatures, humidity and filtered light are the keys to successfully growing this species as with other Phalaenopsis species.
How to Grow Phalaenopsis stuartiana
Light:
Like most epiphytic orchids, Phalaenopsis stuartiana generally prefers bright, filtered or indirect light.
Direct sun can quickly cause foliage damage, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Watering:
A regular watering cycle is best, and the practice of watering and them letting the soil/growing medium dry a little is recommended. Generally a deep watering once a week works well, however this will depend on the growing medium.
Soil/Growing Medium
A mixture of perlite, charcoal, peat, coconut husks (salt free) and pine bark works well. You can also mount these orchids on a tree fern slab.
A general purpose orchid mix also works well.
Temperature:
Being a tropical to sub tropical species warm conditions are required. Consistent conditions without big drops in temperature are also important. Aim for daytime temperatures between 77°F (25°C) and nighttime temperatures around 59°F (15°C) no lower, are generally suitable.
Humidity
Aim for high humidity, mist spray in the morning, use a humidifier or sit the pot on pebbles in s dish of water.
Fertiliser
From spring through summer, use an orchid fertiliser every 4 weeks. In winter, do not fertilise.