Phalaenopsis or Moth Orchid or Phals (for short) is the most common type of Orchids. This Orchid blooms all year round and it is so easy to grow at home, indoor or outdoor. The blooms of this Orchid flower also tend to last for a very long time. It can be repotted, too, anytime, unlike other types of Orchids. However, the best time to repot this orchid is when the blooms go out. After blooming, new roots will grow, making it ideal to transfer to a bigger pot. If you want your Phalaenopsis to grow stronger in order to bloom better, you need to make the roots grow more robust. In order to do that, here are some helpful tips by flower delivery Singapore expert on how to care for Phalaenopsis Orchids:
Identification of Phalaenopsis:
To care for your Phals, you need to identify it first because different types of orchids need different care. Phalaenopsis usually has floppy leaves with 3 t0 6 pieces in broad shape. When they bloom, you will notice that the spikes of the flowers come between the leaves.
They are epiphytic plants. They grow better by attaching their roots to the tree or rock where they get the nutrients they need. They do not grow in wet soil but they can grow in pots provided that proper potting is done.
Phals want warm temperature. During daytime, the ideal temperature to keep the plant in proper care is 68-85° F. During nighttime, this plant prefers to be at 65-75° F. This type of Orchid enjoys warm climate, mostly a temperature similar to homes and indoor areas, making the Phalaenopsis Orchid an ideal house plant.
Spikes may come in 1 to 3 spikes depending on the size of the Phalas. The larger plant may have more than one spike with blooms of 3 to 20 flowers.
Phals have flowers that are usually in 2 to 4 inches in diameter, which bloom in its spike that grows in length from 12 to 18 inches. Flowers bloom in a variety of colors, too. It can bloom in white, pink, yellow, striped, or splotched. Being the longest blooming Orchid, the blooms may last from 2 months to 6 months long before they finally drop off.
Properly nurtured Phals tend to bloom 2 to 3 times yearly, especially when they reached maturity period.
Caring of Phalaenopsis:
- Potting
Proper potting is important. This will prevent the plant from over watering. In a wide variety of substances, potting Phals is ideal, especially for indoor purposes, as long as the potting substrate gives the roots some air to dry out relatively well.
In potting Phals, soil that is usually used for houseplants are not an ideal choice. The best choice for potting this orchid is the bark mix. Bark mix is easier to use and it allows the roots to grow stronger and to dry faster.
Plastic pots are better than clay pots because they tend to dry easily. When you choose to put them in pots, make sure that the pots have enough holes to allow good drainage.
- Repotting
Repotting is advised when pots become root-bound or when pots start to break because of the growing roots. This is the best time to encourage the plant a fresh start. To repot the plant, gently pull the plant from its pot. Shake off to loosen the remaining pot mix. If there is dead or rotting root, trim or cut it off from the healthy roots. In the bottom of the pot, drape the roots and pile a cone of potting mix. Spray water sparingly to let new roots start up. After one month of repotting, feed the plant up with the right formula or solution of fertilizer.
- Watering
To properly care for your Phals at home, you have to understand that this type of Orchid does not need too much water. The main cause of their death is over watering. Too much water on the leaves and roots will rot the plant and cause it to die. Spray water on the roots and let them dry in the air.
- Positioning
Phals do not need too much sunlight. In fact, placing them under the direct sunlight will only burn the leaves and wither the flowers easily. On the other hand, overhead lights are not enough. The best way to provide their needed light is to place them near a window so they can get natural but diffused light. If you keep them outdoor, choose shaded areas. Direct sunlight will burn the Phals and not enough light will prevent the plant from flowering and re-flowering. If you notice spikes or signs of spikes but no flower comes out, place them in a spot that gets morning sunlight.
- Feeding
Phals also need plant food every now and then. Once a month, you can give your Phals some plant foods to keep them nurtured and properly cared. It is best to ask your florist for the recommended formulation or for balanced fertilizer solution. To promote blooming, Phals may need high phosphorus fertilizer.
Taking Care of Phalaenopsis after Blooming:
After flowers drop and fall off from the plant, you can either leave the spike as is, or cut it back or remove it entirely from the plant. If there are withered stems, you may also cut them off the plant because withered stems will no longer produce leaves or flowers. This will also allow the roots to directly receive the energy and nutrients, making them healthier and stronger. Taking the withered stem, old leaves, and dried blooms from the plant also prepares the plant for the next blooming period.
Caring for the Phalaenopsis is easy. There is always a reason why they do not bloom on time. Check these: Is the plant wet or too dry? Is the root rotting? Is the room chilly or too hot? Is the level of light too low or too high? Is it lacking plant food or there is too much fertilizer? If the Phalaenopsis Orchids do not bloom on expected time, fortunately, there are determining factors to check that will help you keep your plant for a longer period of time.