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Phalaenopsis Orchid in Brief


Phalaenopsis orchid is the most popular genus of orchids and is thought of as best for beginner orchid growers for more than one reason. It is easy to grow; is naturally resistant to pests; can grow well in low light conditions; blooms in rich and beautiful colors of white, yellow, lavender, red, orange and pink. A single spike bears fifteen or more flowers. Phalaenopsis flowers do not bear a smell. Phalaenopsis orchid consists of about fifty species all categorized under the common name Moth Orchids on account of the fact that the long arching sprays of Phalaenopsis flowers appear like a group of flying moths seen in moonlight.

Factors Influencing the Growth of Phalaenopsis Orchid

Plants of Phalaenopsis orchid thrive well in warm and moist conditions. Mostly they require bright sunlight though excessive direct exposure is not conducive for their blooming. Some of the helpful points to take care of, while growing a Phalaenopsis orchid, are:

1. Watering: Phalaenopsis orchids require thorough watering. But the plant must not be watered again until the medium turns dry. Excess of water lying in the medium affects the roots with rot. Also, water should not be allowed to wet the flowers or rest in the folds of the leaves, again to avoid the threat of rotting.
2. Temperature: Phalaenopsis orchids love warm temperatures and do especially well if allowed to grow in temperature variation of 60 degrees to over 70 degrees every twenty four hours.
3. Potting of a Phalaenopsis Orchid: The appropriate time for potting a Phalaenopsis orchid is in early summer when the blooming of flowers is over. The ideal mix for the plant is one that drains quickly e.g. perlite, tree fern-fiber, or charcoal etc.
4. Repotting: Repotting is dependent on the age of the plant. A younger Phalaenopsis orchid grows fast enough and needs to be repotted once a year. A mature plant, on the contrary, will stay at least some years in the same pot. Care must be taken to see if the medium of the plant is still fresh to support growth and heath.

Repotting a Phalaenopsis Orchid

Before repotting a plant, carefully remove all the old mix from the roots. Cut off any rotten parts of the root. Place the plant in the new medium, keeping the contact of root and stem just below the medium. Do not leave large openings for air to enter the medium. Also, you should water after one or two days once you have kept the repotted plant in shade.

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