How to care for Phalaenopsis orchids for beginners
Core guide of this article: Introduction to how beginners can care for Phalaenopsis orchids and small tips on orchid cultivation. Let's take a look together.
To care for Phalaenopsis orchids, use a planting medium with good breathability, commonly using sphagnum moss for cultivation. Control the temperature between 20-26℃, provide scattered light, shade in the summer to prevent direct sunlight. Water the medium in time to ensure moisture without causing waterlogging and root rot. Fertilize once a month, preferably using a special fertilizer for Phalaenopsis orchids. The environment should be well-ventilated, and regularly spray pesticides to prevent and control diseases and pests.
Phalaenopsis orchids have a butterfly-like flower shape and are a very popular type of flower among enthusiasts, suitable for indoor cultivation. Below are the methods and techniques for caring for Phalaenopsis orchids.
Special planting medium
The aerial roots of Phalaenopsis orchids have high requirements for soil, needing to be acidic, permeable, and not waterlogged. Therefore, a special planting medium is needed to grow Phalaenopsis orchids, with sphagnum moss being the most commonly used due to its good water retention and breathability. Also, choose a pot with good breathability, such as a clay pot.
Suitable temperature
Caring for Phalaenopsis orchids requires important climatic conditions, including temperature regulation and ensuring a well-ventilated environment. Controlling the temperature at a constant 20-26℃ is more suitable. There should be temperature control measures in greenhouses, and insulation measures should be taken in winter.
Scattered light for growth
Phalaenopsis orchids enjoy scattered light, as their flesh-like petals are most afraid of direct sunlight. In the summer, when sunlight is strong, they should be placed in a well-ventilated area with scattered light, and if outdoors, they must be shaded. Moderate light can extend the flowering period.
How to care for Phalaenopsis orchids for beginners
Watering method
The roots of Phalaenopsis orchids are fleshy, and excessive waterlogging can lead to root rot. Using sphagnum moss as the culture medium, its water storage capacity is generally average. It is best to water twice a day in summer and once a week in winter when temperatures are lower. Watering can be done by the immersion method, but be sure to control the water after immersion and then place it back in its original position.
Humidification spray
During the flowering period, maintain an air humidity of 50-80%. A humidifier can be used to increase air humidity. Spraying water on the leaves can also achieve a humidifying effect. However, be careful not to spray on the flowers, as this can shorten the flowering period.
Light and frequent fertilization
When fertilizing Phalaenopsis orchids, choose a fertilizer with a low concentration of nutrient solution, such as a special compound fertilizer. Fertilize once a month, and do not fertilize during the flowering period, as it can easily shorten the flowering period.