The Cultivation Method and Precautions of Phalaenopsis
Every midsummer, the torch-like inflorescence of Phalaenopsis always attracts countless flower enthusiasts. This epiphytic plant, native to tropical rainforests, has gradually entered the field of home gardening due to its unique ornamental value. However, many novices often encounter problems such as weak plants and difficulty in flowering during the maintenance process. In fact, mastering a few key points can easily solve the maintenance problems.
I. Three Elements of Environmental Control
Temperature and Light Cooperation
The most suitable growth temperature range for Phalaenopsis is between 18-35℃, and it needs to maintain above 12℃ in winter to survive. It is recommended to place it on the east-facing balcony from late spring to mid-autumn to receive 4 hours of direct morning sunlight, and filter 50% of the strong light at noon with a sunshade net. After entering winter, place it on the south-facing windowsill and use a supplementary light to extend the lighting time to 10 hours.
Humidity Control Tips
Maintain 70-80% air humidity through double-layer humidification method: place a water storage tray at the bottom of the pot, with a layer of ceramic stones to isolate the water surface; spray the leaves with a misting spray bottle in the morning and evening every day. Avoid direct contact of water droplets with the flower buds during flowering, and use an air circulation fan with a humidifier instead.
II. Water and Fertilizer Management Schedule
Scientific Watering Mode
Keep the planting material moist but not waterlogged in spring and summer, using the "moist when dry" method: water thoroughly when the top layer of bark is dry. Change to "dry-wet alternating" in autumn and winter, wait for the planting material to completely dry and then water every 2 days. It is recommended to use rainwater or pure water with a pH of 5.5-6.0.
Precise Fertilization Plan
Apply balanced fertilizer (N-P-K=20-20-20) once every 10 days from March to June; switch to high phosphorus and potassium fertilizer (10-30-20) to promote flowering from July to September; stop fertilizing in winter and spray seaweed extract once a month. Pay attention to applying thin fertilizer frequently, with the concentration controlled at 2000 times liquid.
III. Shaping and Propagation Techniques
Pruning and Shaping Tips
Pinch the top during the sprouting period in spring, leaving 3-4 stem segments. Remove the remaining flowers in time after flowering, leaving a 10cm flower stem for secondary flowering. Prune the dense aerial roots and retain healthy roots when repotting every year.
Division Propagation Process
Select mother plants over 3 years old and cut the side buds with 3 aerial roots in spring and autumn. After disinfecting the cut, plant it in a mixed matrix of pine bark and sphagnum moss (7:3). Maintain an environment of 25℃ and 85% humidity, and new roots will sprout and survive after 2 weeks.
IV. Pest and Disease Protection Network
To prevent southern blight, maintain good ventilation and drench with Bacillus subtilis once a month. During the peak period of scale insects, use 75% alcohol cotton swabs for physical removal and spray with neem oil. Regularly check the back of the leaves, and immediately treat with sophoraflavones if red spider mites are found.
After mastering these maintenance tips, you will find that Phalaenopsis is not as delicate as imagined. This tropical orchid actually has a very strong vitality, and as long as you avoid excessive watering and low temperatures, it can bloom year after year even in the north-facing heating rooms. It is recommended to try the board planting method to better showcase its epiphytic characteristics.