How to Care for Newly Purchased Mo Lan Orchids
Mo Lan orchids are loved by flower enthusiasts for their elegant flower posture, but newly purchased plants require special care to quickly adapt to their pots. This article combines the growth characteristics of Mo Lan orchids to explain the key points of the entire process of management from soil replacement to fertilization, helping you create a healthy potted plant.
Core Care Techniques During the Mo Lan Orchid's Acclimatization Period
1. Mo Lan Orchid Soil Replacement Guidelines
Newly purchased Mo Lan orchid roots are wrapped in the original soil, which contains symbiotic flora maintaining nutrient absorption. It is recommended to maintain the original soil for 2-3 months, and replace it with loose planting material after new buds sprout. If the original pot has poor ventilation, you can place it in a purple sand pot for "false planting" to avoid root damage.
2. Mo Lan Orchid Progressive Lighting Plan
Adopt a "three-stage lighting method": place it in a low-light area (north-facing windowsill) of 500-800 lux for the first two weeks, transition to a scattered light environment (east-facing balcony) of 1500 lux in the third week, and after the fourth week, it can be exposed to 3000 lux of morning direct sunlight. Note that if yellow spots appear on the leaves, shade must be provided immediately.
3. Mo Lan Orchid Temperature and Humidity Control
Maintain a day-night temperature difference of 5-8°C for optimal growth, with a daytime temperature of 25°C and a nighttime temperature of 18°C to activate growth enzymes. Use the "tray moisture increase method" to maintain 60% humidity: place ceramsite in the tray at the bottom of the pot and add water, allowing the evaporated water vapor to create a microclimate. In summer, when temperatures exceed 32°C, a circulating fan should be turned on for ventilation.
4. Mo Lan Orchid Nutrition Supply Strategy
No fertilization is allowed in the first 45 days of the acclimatization period. After new roots grow 2cm, apply a special slow-release orchid fertilizer (NPK 20-20-20) every 20 days. It is recommended to use the "soak pot fertilization method": dissolve the fertilizer in water at a ratio of 1:2000, soak the pot for 10 minutes, which is more beneficial for root absorption.
Continuous Care Points for Mo Lan Orchids
Observe the growth of the "crystal head" at the tip of the leaves. When new buds have 3 true leaves, gradually transition to regular care. Every quarter, supplement the planting material with a mixture of pine bark and volcanic rock (ratio 3:1) to maintain the substrate's breathability. Increase the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers before the flowering period to promote the development of flower spikes.
Through scientific progressive care, the survival rate of newly purchased Mo Lan orchids can be increased to over 90%. Mastering the lighting rhythm and water control, you can also cultivate Mo Lan orchids with shiny leaves and flowers that bloom every year.