Aren't you curious about the introduction of Phalaenopsis orchids, their propagation and care techniques? The details are as follows:
Phalaenopsis orchids are epiphytic plants native to tropical regions, and are known as the "queen of orchids." They have racemes with many flowers, the shape of which resembles butterflies. The flowers are bright and rich in color, and they have a long blooming period. They are one of the most widely cultivated and popular species in the orchid family, loved by people all over the world. As an important indoor flower, they are commonly seen in homes and offices, and in some regions are often used as bridal bouquets.
Propagation methods of Phalaenopsis orchids:
Phalaenopsis orchids are usually propagated using tissue culture and division methods. However, when there are no adventitious buds and propagation is not possible under home conditions, many orchid enthusiasts feel regret. Here, we recommend a technique for propagating Phalaenopsis orchids using flower stems.
After flowering, cut off the residual flowers and stems, making sure to retain ungerminated nodes (about 3-4 nodes). Carefully remove the bracts from the top 1-2 nodes to expose the nodes, taking care not to damage the buds. Apply a small amount of bud-promoting agent (plant hormone) evenly to the nodes. Place the treated orchids in a suitable location, maintaining a temperature of 25-30°C and humidity above 75%. After 2-3 months, 1-2 new plantlets can grow. When the new seedlings reach a certain size, wrap a small amount of moss around their base with film. When the young plants have grown 2-3 thick roots, they can be cut and planted separately.
When caring for Phalaenopsis orchids at home, the following points should be noted:
(1) Temperature: Phalaenopsis orchids are native to tropical regions and prefer a high temperature and humidity environment. The minimum temperature during the growing period should be maintained above 15°C, with an optimal temperature of 20-30°C. When the temperature exceeds 35°C in summer or drops below 10°C in winter, their growth will be inhibited. Around the Spring Festival is the peak blooming period, and proper cooling can extend the viewing time, but it should not be lower than 13°C.
(2) Water: In their native habitats, Phalaenopsis orchids mostly grow on tree trunks, with their roots exposed to the air, absorbing moisture from the humid air. The air humidity should be maintained at 70%. When cultivated artificially, the roots are buried in the growing medium. If overwatered, the medium's aeration will deteriorate, the fleshy roots will rot, the leaves will turn yellow and fall off, and in severe cases, death may occur. The watering principle is: water when dry and water thoroughly. When the indoor air is dry, a spray bottle or sprayer can be used to mist the leaves, but care should be taken not to spray water on the flowers during the blooming period to avoid flower and bud drop.
(3) Light: Phalaenopsis orchids require less light, about 1/3 to 1/2 of the light required by general orchids, and should not be exposed to strong direct sunlight. When grown on a windowsill indoors, part of the sunlight should be blocked by window screens, with 80% shade in summer, 60% in autumn, and 40% in winter. Appropriate lighting before and after the blooming period can promote flowering and make the flowers more colorful and long-lasting.
(4) Nutrition: When cultivating Phalaenopsis orchids, aquatic plants and moss are usually chosen as the growing medium. The principle of fertilization should be to apply less fertilizer and apply light fertilizer. During the normal growing period, apply a special orchid fertilizer diluted 2000 times for root fertilization, and fertilize every 2-3 weeks depending on the growth situation. Before flowering, a compound flower fertilizer with a high content of water-soluble phosphorus and potassium can be used at a dilution of 1000-2000 times, sprayed every 10 days. Fertilization should be stopped during the flowering period and in seasons with low temperatures.
(5) Potting: It takes about 2 years from seedlings to flowering. Adult Phalaenopsis orchids should be repotted and the growing medium replaced every spring after flowering, otherwise, it is prone to accumulate dirt and moss, and the medium can easily rot, causing diseases and pests. When potting Phalaenopsis orchids, it is best to use porous and breathable unglazed pots. When planting, the growing medium at the bottom of the pot should take up at least half of the pot's capacity, and some roots should be left exposed on the surface of the pot. Do not bury them deeply, as this will hinder breathing and growth.
The above introduction to the propagation and care techniques of Phalaenopsis orchids is hoped to provide orchid enthusiasts with some knowledge of flowers.