TheNaturePlanet

Phalaenopsis has an elegant posture and gorgeous flower colors. As long as it is properly maintained, it can also thrive and bloom beautifully on a closed balcony. Now, let me introduce to you how to maintain phalaenopsis on a closed balcony.

**Light**

In the environment of a closed balcony, the light is relatively mild, but reasonable regulation is of vital importance. During the hot summer days, direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent the leaves from being damaged. You can use a sunshade net or Venetian blinds for shading. In spring and autumn, the phalaenopsis can be placed in a bright area by the window, allowing it to be bathed in scattered light. In winter, with short sunshine hours and weak light, try to let the phalaenopsis receive more sunlight to meet its photosynthesis needs and promote the vigorous growth of the plant and the differentiation of flower buds.

**Temperature**

In terms of temperature, the suitable growth temperature for phalaenopsis is between 18°C and 28°C. In summer, high temperatures are likely to occur on a closed balcony, so attention should be paid to ventilation and cooling. Devices such as fans or air conditioners can be used for adjustment. In winter, heat preservation measures should be taken, and the phalaenopsis should be moved to a position slightly farther away from the window to prevent it from being frostbitten.

**Humidity**

Humidity is also crucial. The suitable range of air humidity for phalaenopsis is 60% to 80%. The air on a closed balcony is often dry. When using a humidifier, it is necessary to maintain an appropriate distance from the phalaenopsis to avoid directly spraying water mist onto the plant, so as to prevent the occurrence of diseases. You can also place the phalaenopsis on a tray paved with moist moss or water-absorbing stones to create a suitable humidity environment.

**Watering**

Watering should follow the principle of "water thoroughly when the soil is dry". As an epiphytic orchid, the roots of phalaenopsis are extremely sensitive to water, and waterlogging is likely to lead to root rot. When determining whether watering is needed, you can observe the dry and wet conditions of the sphagnum moss or the planting medium. When the surface of the sphagnum moss is dry and the color becomes lighter, watering can be carried out. Water thoroughly when watering, but avoid waterlogging. It is best to choose the morning or evening for watering, and avoid the high-temperature period at noon.

**Fertilization**

Fertilization is a key link to make the phalaenopsis grow robustly and bloom abundantly. During the growth period, a thin liquid fertilizer can be applied every 1 to 2 weeks, mainly nitrogen fertilizer, to promote the growth of stems and leaves. During the flower bud differentiation period, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be increased. After dilution, carry out foliar spraying or root irrigation treatment to promote the differentiation of flower buds and the growth of flower spikes. When fertilizing, follow the principle of applying thin fertilizers frequently. In winter and during the flowering period, reduce or stop fertilization.

**Pests and Diseases**

Although the environment of a closed balcony is relatively enclosed and the probability of pests and diseases invading is relatively low, preventive work still needs to be done well. When preventing, maintain good ventilation on the balcony and regularly remove withered leaves and residual flowers. Once the signs of pests and diseases are found, take measures to deal with them in a timely manner.

When maintaining phalaenopsis on a closed balcony, as long as you master the key elements such as light, temperature, humidity, watering, fertilization, and the prevention and control of pests and diseases, and take good care of it, you can enjoy the beauty of the blooming phalaenopsis.