Phalaenopsis cultivation techniques and precautions

Phalaenopsis is loved for its elegant plant shape and delicate leaves. Its flowers are graceful, beautiful in shape, and colorful, making it highly ornamental. Many friends have a special liking for Phalaenopsis, because it is not only easier to bloom than other orchids , but also has a long flowering period and the flowers are in perfect condition, making it the best among orchids. Let’s learn about the cultivation techniques and precautions of Phalaenopsis below.

1. Breeding techniques

1. Lighting management

Phalaenopsis prefers a semi-shaded environment and avoids direct sunlight. In spring and autumn, it can be placed indoors in a place with bright diffuse light, such as near a window but away from direct sunlight. In summer, 50%-70% shade is required to prevent leaf burns. Sunshade nets or curtains can be used for shade. In winter, you can increase the lighting time appropriately and place it near a south-facing windowsill to facilitate photosynthesis of the plant and promote flower bud differentiation.

2. Temperature requirements

The suitable temperature for Phalaenopsis growth is 18℃-28℃. During the high temperatures of summer, when the temperature exceeds 30℃, the growth of the plants will be inhibited. Attention should be paid to ventilation and cooling. The indoor temperature can be adjusted by turning on a fan or air conditioner. The temperature in winter cannot be lower than 15℃, otherwise it will easily cause cold damage, affect plant growth and even cause death.

3. Watering tips

Phalaenopsis is very sensitive to water management, and improper watering can easily lead to root problems such as root rot or dryness. During the peak growing season, water the plants 1-2 times a week. In summer, water evaporates quickly, so you can increase the watering frequency appropriately, but avoid waterlogging. The plant grows slowly in winter, so watering should be reduced to once every 10-15 days. The best time to water is before 10 am or after 4 pm, and avoid watering during the high temperature period at noon.

4. Fertilization tips

Apply thin liquid fertilizer every 1-2 weeks during the peak growing season. The concentration of liquid fertilizer should be controlled between 0.1% and 0.2%. You can choose special fertilizer for orchids or compound fertilizer with a nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium ratio of 1:1:1. Applying additional phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, such as potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution, during the flower bud differentiation period can promote flower bud differentiation and flowering. When applying fertilizer, you should dilute the fertilizer and pour it along the edge of the pot to avoid it coming into contact with leaves and flowers to avoid fertilizer damage.

5. Matrix selection

Phalaenopsis is suitable for substrates with good air permeability and strong drainage, such as sphagnum moss, bark, pine scales, etc. Sphagnum moss has good water retention, but attention must be paid to ventilation and drainage to avoid water accumulation and root rot. Pine bark has better air permeability and is suitable for long-term maintenance.

6. Repotting method

Phalaenopsis orchids are generally repotted every 1-2 years, preferably in spring or autumn. When repotting, first take the plant out of the original pot, gently shake off the old substrate at the roots, check the condition of the roots, and if there are rotten or diseased roots, trim them in time. Then place the plant in a new pot and fill it with new substrate. The height of the substrate should be enough to cover the roots and be level with the base of the plant's stem. After watering thoroughly, place in a cool and ventilated place for 1-2 weeks to grow seedlings.

2. Precautions

1. Avoid using large basins

Phalaenopsis is suitable for growing in small pots because its roots are aerial and more drought-resistant. Using a large pot will make it difficult for water to evaporate and easily cause root rot.

2. Avoid strong direct sunlight

Phalaenopsis prefers an environment with sufficient diffuse light. One or two hours of light a day is enough, and it should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Long-term placement in the shade will also affect growth and flowering.

3. Avoid excessive drought

Although Phalaenopsis is drought tolerant, it needs the soil to remain slightly moist. When watering, wait until the roots appear slightly shriveled before watering thoroughly to avoid excessive drought causing the roots to dry out.

In short, Phalaenopsis is an elegant and popular indoor ornamental plant. The above are the cultivation tips and precautions of Phalaenopsis to help you better care for Phalaenopsis: