subject: Tips for Taking Care of a Phal Orchid [print this page] Just as with any orchid there are basic things just have to be done and on regular basis. Taking care of a Phal or Phalaenopsis orchid is not a big challenge. Following a few rules will insure a long and healthy life for your orchid. One of the best reasons for choosing a phalaenopsis is it is one of the highest in demand in the orchid industry and one of the most popular orchid types. Also, under the right conditions blooms can last for many months.
Commercial production of this orchid is high. Phal orchids are sold in many big box stores and local nurseries. When buying from a Depot type store check the overall health of the plant for in these environments often the plants are not taken care of properly. Someone will water the plants the same for all. This may work for most plants but not for orchids. You may find them over watered very quickly. Find out from the department manager when these orchids, or any plants you are interested in, are going to arrive. If they don't know or don't care from a customer service point of view ask the store manager. This will normally get results. Besides you are spending your money and you want the best product for what you have spent.
This orchid grows in partial shade and full shade. A Phal will quickly lose its will to live in direct sun. Sun scalding or orchid yellow leaves will occur quickly. Move the plant as needed to find best lighting for it.
Humidity is high on the scale of having a healthy plant. 60-70 percent humidity is preferred for these orchids. One may think this not easily accomplished but it can be done with a water tray. Take a shallow tray and put in washed gravel or small river rock. Best if about an inch deep. Place the potted orchid onto the rock. Fill the tray with water and you will get instant humidity.
A Phal must be kept in a favorable temperature environment. Do not let the temperature drop below 55 degrees in the orchid's room. The best is a range from 75 to 95 degrees. I understand that this may not work for most people in their homes so move the orchid outside when it is in the correct range. Air circulation is a good thing to have happen. In the house a ceiling fan will suffice.
Watering is a critical element to the happy orchid. When first brought home, soak the pot well and use plain tap water. Let the Phal dry out until the top potting medium is dry. Then give an ample irrigating and let the cycle begin again.
All plants need a good meal once in a while and a phal orchid is no exception. When you are watering orchids it can be a good time to apply fertilizer. Not on a weekly basis but in a very dilute solution every two weeks or so. You may burn the leaves if the concentration is too high.
Repotting a phal is not hard. Wait until the cold winter months and make the change. During the repotting process division of the orchid is an option and creates new plants. Cut away any dead roots and use new potting medium.
With just a few tips one can enjoy a phal's blooms for months and have a healthy happy orchid.
