Reasons and solutions for Phalaenopsis not blooming

Many flower lovers choose to grow Phalaenopsis orchids at the end of the year, and they often ask why the Phalaenopsis orchids in their homes do not bloom. Even if the flowers were in full bloom when they were purchased last year, there are no flowers this year. In fact, as long as the flowering conditions of Phalaenopsis are met, they will be able to produce flower stems starting from December and will bloom again every year. Below is a brief introduction to the reasons and solutions for Phalaenopsis not blooming.

1. Growth Environment

Phalaenopsis is originally an epiphytic plant in the tropical rain forest. Its roots are accustomed to entwining around trees or rocks, absorbing nutrients and water from the air. If planted in soil, the roots will rot. Therefore, when Phalaenopsis is used as a potted plant , a substrate with excellent air permeability should be used, such as sphagnum moss, pine scales and coarse coconut shells, rather than conventional nutrient soil.

For newly purchased Phalaenopsis orchids with flower stems, just place them in a ventilated, light-permeable and cool place, and you can enjoy their flowering period of up to two or three months.

When the Phalaenopsis orchid grows full flower stems, fertilization should be stopped. In the first year after purchase, you can enjoy the flowers directly without changing the pot or applying fertilizer. After flowering, remove the remaining flowers in time. You can trim from the bottom of the flower stem, or keep two or three buds at the bottom.

2. Conditions for Phalaenopsis to Bloom

1.Plant is full

For Phalaenopsis to bloom, the plant must first be full enough, with at least four healthy leaves, and the root system must also be healthy. The fleshy roots should be plump. If the roots turn brown, black and shriveled, they may be damaged.

2. Sunlight

Although Phalaenopsis is shade-tolerant, it also needs sufficient diffuse light to bloom. When the temperature drops below 25-26 degrees, you should expose the plant to more sunlight as long as you avoid sunburn on the leaves. Especially when the temperature drops, the sunlight becomes softer, and more sunlight helps flowering.

If the leaves of Phalaenopsis orchid are particularly green and tender, it may be lacking light. In a well-lit environment, the leaves should be grass green with a slight yellow tint, rather than dark green. Leaves that stand upright and have a firm texture indicate a healthy plant. Without light, the leaves will droop and become weak.

3. Watering

Another condition for Phalaenopsis to bloom is water control. Water should be supplemented in winter and spring, but the substrate should not be kept wet all the time. Occasional dryness can increase growth pressure and promote flowering. During the operation, wait for the substrate to dry for a day or two, then add water, and repeat this operation until the flower stem emerges.

4. Temperature difference

Appropriate temperature difference is also one of the conditions for Phalaenopsis to bloom. Phalaenopsis does not like long-term high temperature environment (above 30 degrees). The daytime temperature should be kept at 15-25 degrees and the nighttime temperature at 12-15 degrees. With an appropriate temperature difference, Phalaenopsis will bloom more easily.

5. Fertilizer

Appropriate phosphorus and potassium fertilizer is another condition for Phalaenopsis to bloom. Although it is not necessary, it can promote flowering. If the above conditions are met but the flower stem has not yet bloomed, it may be due to insufficient nutrients.

When applying fertilizer, avoid excessive concentration, the concentration should be half of the normal concentration, or use special fertilizer for orchids . You can choose flower-promoting fertilizers such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate or Huaduoduo No. 2. Stop fertilizing when the temperature is low, keep the minimum temperature above 12 degrees, and replenish every ten days or so.

In addition, everyone should also note that Phalaenopsis orchids often have problems due to excessive low temperatures during maintenance in winter and spring. The minimum temperature should be kept above 5 degrees, and watering should be controlled when the temperature is low. If the Phalaenopsis orchid is frostbitten, it should be moved to a warm place immediately. The frostbitten parts cannot recover and need to be cut off in time, and then coated with carbendazim powder or allowed to heal naturally. If the frost damage does not spread, the plant can still survive. When the temperatures are low in winter, be careful not to leave any moisture on the leaves to avoid aggravating frostbite.