Orchid Phalaenopsis Care

Phalaenopsis (pronounced fayl-eh-NOP-siss) are native to Southeast Asia, and is commonly referred to as the ‘Moth Orchid’. It has a color range that includes white, pinks, lavender, and yellow in both solid colors, and combinations of stripes and spots. Individual blooms can last as long as 3 months.

Phalaenopsis Light
These orchids grow easily in a bright window, with no direct mid-day sun. An east window, or shaded south window is ideal in the home.

Phalaenopsis Temperature
Temperatures for this orchid should usually range between 75 and 85 F during the day, and be above 60 F at night. Higher humidity and air movement should accompany higher temperatures.

Phalaenopsis Water
These orchids should be watered thoroughly and then not again until the media is nearly, but not completely dry. Water is especially critical for them, because they have no major water-storage organs and should never completely dry out.

Phalaenopsis Humidity
Humidity is important to this orchid, with the recommended humidity being between 50 and 80 percent. In the home, set the plants on trays of gravel, partially filled with water, so that the pots never sit in water.

Phalaenopsis Feeding
Fertilize on a regular schedule with a balanced fertilizer. Apply fertilizer at one-quarter strength with every watering. During blooming season you might consider a blooming plant formula with elevated phosphorus levels.

Phalaenopsis Potting
Potting is best done every one to three years in the spring, immediately after flowering. These plants must be potted in a porous mix.