TheNaturePlanet

You've just brought home a beautiful Phalaenopsis orchid. Are you both excited and a little at a loss? Don't worry. Follow these methods, and you can ensure that your Phalaenopsis will grow healthily and bloom every year.

In terms of lighting, Phalaenopsis orchids prefer soft light and can't stand direct strong sunlight. You can place it in a bright area indoors where the sunlight doesn't directly hit it, such as on a coffee table near the window in the living room or on a windowsill shaded by a sheer curtain. If the light is too strong, the leaves will get sunburned and turn yellow. If there is insufficient light, it will be difficult for the plant to develop flower buds and bloom.

Phalaenopsis orchids like warmth and are afraid of cold. The most suitable temperature for their growth is between 15°C and 25°C. In winter, keep them warm and don't let them stay in an environment below 10°C, otherwise, they are likely to get frostbitten. When the temperature exceeds 30°C in summer, appropriate cooling measures should be taken, such as turning on the air conditioner or moving the plant to a cool and ventilated place.

Watering is a skillful task. Phalaenopsis orchids have fleshy roots that can store water, so watering once a week is usually enough. When watering, make sure to water thoroughly until the water flows out from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot, but never let there be waterlogging, otherwise, the roots will rot. You can insert your finger about 2 to 3 centimeters into the soil and water when the soil is dry. It is best to use rainwater or tap water that has been left standing for two or three days to avoid the chlorine in the water from harming the plant.

To make the Phalaenopsis orchid grow well, fertilization is essential. During the growth seasons of spring and autumn, apply a thin liquid fertilizer every 1 to 2 weeks. In winter and summer, when the growth is slow, don't fertilize. When fertilizing, follow the principle of "applying thin fertilizers frequently" and never apply concentrated fertilizers, otherwise, the roots will be burned.

You also need to repot the Phalaenopsis orchid regularly. Generally, repotting should be done every 2 to 3 years, and it is best to do it after the flowers fade in spring. When repotting, carefully take out the plant, remove some of the old soil, plant it in a new pot, and fill it with breathable sphagnum moss or bark.

As long as you take good care of it with your heart, the Phalaenopsis orchid will surely thrive, bloom more beautiful flowers, and add vitality and festivity to your home!