Fact Sheet – PC10

Phalaenopsis Orchid Care

1100 W. Moana Ln., Reno, NV 89509 11301 So. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89511

About Phalaenopsis Orchids

The beautiful and delicate Phalaenopsis or Moth Orchid, as it is commonly called, is fast becoming one of the most popular orchids. It is an easy plant for the beginner but also has many rewards for the experienced grower. It can be grown in the home or in the greenhouse and is a very reliable bloomer. When fully mature, the plant seems to bloom year round.

Temperature and Light

Phalaenopsis must be grown in a heated greenhouse or in the home. They do best with minimum night temperatures of 62° F. They tolerate heat better than most orchids and will tolerate temperatures up into the 90's on a hot day as long as the humidity is adequate.

Phalaenopsis do not have a high light requirement, but they must have adequate filtered sunlight at least part of the day in order to bloom. About 500 to 1000 foot candles is optimum. In the home, an east window (if unobstructed) is excellent. It may be necessary to place a sheer nylon curtain in the window to prevent sunburn. If the foliage begins to yellow, there may be too much light.

Water, Fertilizer and Humidity

Phalaenopsis cannot store water so they should not be allowed to dry out or kept too wet. A thorough soaking once a week should be adequate. It is best to prevent water from getting on the leaves. Do not use cold water — use tepid water to prevent tissue damage. Watering should be done in the morning so that the plant will dry out by nighttime.

Phalaenopsis should be fed every 2 weeks. Use Grow More Premium Orchid Food, Formula 20-10-20. Continue this feeding cycle all year around. Humidity should be kept at 50 to 60%. In the home, this can be achieved by placing the plant on a grid over a humidity tray. Never allow the plant to sit in water as it must be able to drain freely.

Repotting

Phalaenopsis should be repotted about every 2 years unless they outgrow the pot or the mix breaks down. Repot in Orchid Mix (fir and redwood barks). After repotting, the plant should immediately be watered with SuperThrive (one drop per gallon). Do not water again for 5 or 6 days and keep the plant in the shade. After root growth begins, move the plant to its regular position.
Most Phalaenopsis bloom late winter into spring. When that blooming is through, the spike can be cut off above the 4th or 5th node (from the bottom). This node will then probably put out laterals and bloom again in the summer.