TheNaturePlanet

Phalaenopsis, a beautiful flower native to tropical rainforests, will indeed have its growth significantly inhibited when the temperature is too low. How should we properly care for Phalaenopsis in a low-temperature environment? Here are some key precautions.
Phalaenopsis has high requirements for temperature and is adapted to a warm and humid environment. When the temperature drops below 15 degrees Celsius, the growth rate of Phalaenopsis will significantly slow down and may even stop. This is because low temperature will cause the metabolic rate of Phalaenopsis to slow down, thus affecting its normal physiological activities. When exposed to a low-temperature environment for a long time, Phalaenopsis may exhibit phenomena such as yellowing leaves, falling flower buds, damaged roots, and growth stagnation or withering. In severe cases, the plant may even die.
Precautions for Phalaenopsis in low temperature
Indoor maintenance and temperature control: To ensure the safe growth of Phalaenopsis in a low-temperature environment, it should be placed in a warm room, away from the edge of the window or the position where the cold air blows directly. If the indoor temperature is low, devices such as air conditioners, heaters, electric heaters, heating pads or incubators can be used to maintain a suitable temperature. However, it should be noted that the hot air generated by the heating equipment should not directly blow on the Phalaenopsis to avoid excessive temperature difference and affect the health of the plant. At the same time, sudden drops in temperature at night should also be avoided. Especially for those Phalaenopsis placed on the window sill or near the door, a small warm air blower can be used at night to ensure the stability of the indoor temperature.
Cautious water management: In a low-temperature environment, the water demand of Phalaenopsis will also change. Due to the reduced evaporation, the water demand of the roots will also decrease. Therefore, the watering frequency should be appropriately reduced, and the soil should be kept slightly moist. The need for watering can be judged by observing the leaves of the plant. When the leaves look slightly soft, add an appropriate amount of water. At the same time, avoid direct contact of the leaves and flower buds with cold water to prevent the leaves from turning yellow or even falling off. When watering with a tray, some water droplets or small stones can be placed on the tray to prevent the water from directly contacting the bottom of the plant and reduce the risk of excessive water accumulation.
Sufficient light: Although Phalaenopsis does not like strong direct sunlight, the importance of light in a low-temperature environment cannot be ignored. Sunlight can not only help Phalaenopsis carry out photosynthesis, but also increase the surrounding temperature and provide a more comfortable growth environment for the plant. In the case of short sunshine hours in winter, Phalaenopsis should be placed in a place with good light indoors, such as near a south-facing window. If the light is insufficient, plant light supplements can also be used to supplement the light to promote the healthy growth of the plant and the differentiation of flower buds.
Appropriate fertilization: In a low-temperature environment, the metabolic activity of Phalaenopsis slows down, and its demand for nutrients will also decrease accordingly. Therefore, when fertilizing, the frequency and concentration should be appropriately reduced to avoid nutrient excess and root damage. Usually, during low temperatures, it is sufficient to apply a thin fertilizer every two to three weeks, mainly phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, to promote the health of the roots of Phalaenopsis and the formation of flower buds. Never spray fertilizer on the leaves during the low-temperature period to avoid damaging the leaves and affecting their photosynthetic capacity.
The growth of Phalaenopsis is indeed inhibited in a low-temperature environment. To ensure its safe overwintering and healthy growth, we need to take a series of measures to provide it with a suitable growth environment. Through reasonable temperature control, water management, light supplementation and appropriate fertilization measures, we can keep Phalaenopsis alive and vigorous in the cold winter and make it bloom again in the spring of the following year.