Phalaenopsis, the Moth Orchid, is one of the easiest orchids to grow in the home. Mature plants can flower twice a year, with flowers lasting 2 to 4 months. To encourage a second blooming, cut off only the flowering segment of the spike when all the blossoms have expired. 80% of the time the plant will flower again within 90 days. After the completion of the second flowering cut the entire spike off at emergence from the plant and repot. This allows the plant to put its efforts into vegetative growth, necessary for the next flowering season.

LIGHT

In the home, Phals prefer an east, west or to be near a shaded south window. In dull, northern winter climate, full southern light may be needed. Phals also grow well under artificial light. Use 2 to 4 fluorescent tubes placed 4 to 6 inches above plants for 12 to 16 hours a day.

TEMPERATURE

Average house temps (62° - 85°) are ideal for growing Phalaenopsis. In the fall or winter, night temps falling slightly below 62° for 2 to 3 weeks will help initiate flower spikes. Keep in mind phals stop growing at temps below 60°.

HUMIDITY

Between 50% - 70% humidity is recommended. This can be achieved by placing plants on a Humidity Tray. Misting in the morning and grouping plants together also increases and maintains humidity.

WATER

Take your plant to a sink, water thoroughly (water runs freely from the pot), drain well. NEVER ALLOW THE POT TO STAND IN WATER! Do not water again until bark is nearly dry. On the average, water every 5 to 10 days, depending on the season and environment. Water early in the day and avoid water collecting in the crown of the plant. Phalaenopsis have no water storing organs other than their leaves and should never be left completely dry.

FERTILIZER

Phalaenopsis are known for fast and continual growth, therefore regular feeding is a must. We recommend 30-10-10 from January - August. Dilute one tsp. to a gallon of water and apply every third watering. During the months of September - December use Blossom Booster 10-50-10. One tsp. to a gallon to promote new flower spike induction. Continue until flower buds are visible usually mid-January.

* Remember: Water - Water - Feed!!

Note: Mix your fertilizer ahead and store in a plastic container that can be labeled and capped (such as a used gallon milk jug). This ensures the solution is thoroughly diluted, at room temp. and is convenient to use.

REPOTTING

Done annually, mature plants should be potted in the spring or after flowering. Seedlings should be repotted every 6 to 9 months. Use a fir bark orchid mix that is well draining. Remove all the old medium from the roots, trim off soft, rotted roots and spread remaining roots over a handful of moist medium in the bottom of the pot. Fill the rest of the pot working moistened medium through the roots, so that the junction of the roots and the stem is at the top of the medium. Do not water for several days after potting and keep slightly drier for 2 to 3 weeks to promote new root growth. Misting in the morning is beneficial, but avoid water collecting in the crown.

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