Phalaenopsis cultivation methods and techniques

Phalaenopsis is an elegant and popular indoor ornamental plant that is very sensitive to water management. Improper watering can easily lead to root problems such as root rot or dryness. Let’s learn about the cultivation methods and techniques of Phalaenopsis.

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℃. When the temperature exceeds 30℃ in summer, the growth of 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. In cold areas, Phalaenopsis can be moved to a heated room in winter, but avoid placing it next to a heater or air conditioning vent.

3. Watering points

During the growing season, water 1-2 times a week. Water evaporates quickly in summer, so you can increase watering frequency appropriately, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. In winter, the plant grows slowly, so watering should be reduced to once every 10-15 days. It is best to water 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. Repotting Method

Phalaenopsis orchids are generally repotted every 1-2 years: the best time is spring or autumn. First, take the plant out of the original pot, gently shake off the old substrate at the roots, and check the condition of the roots. If there are rotten or diseased roots, they should be pruned 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 the plants in a cool and ventilated place for 1-2 weeks to allow them to grow slowly. Move them to their normal maintenance position after they resume growth.

In addition, proper ventilation can increase air humidity, improve environmental conditions, and be conducive to the growth of Phalaenopsis. Phalaenopsis is afraid of waterlogging, and excessive watering may cause root rot.