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Phalaenopsis
Light:
Adequate light is needed to produce and maintain healthy flowers. In the home, Phalaenopsis prefer an east window. Phalaenopsis like bright, but indirect light. A south or west window will do with some shade provided. In a greenhouse or outdoor situation provide about 70% shade, being careful to avoid too much sun exposure. Whether you are growing indoors or outdoors Phalaenopsis leaf color should be medium green. Too light green in color is a sign of too much light. Dark rich green in color is a sign of insignificant light exposure.
Temperature:
Temperature can vary from 55 degrees to 95 degrees. The ideal temperature is 60 degrees at night and 75 degrees during the day for Phalaenopsis. Keep in mind you will have more vegetative growth with warmer temperatures. Remember, with warmer temperatures you will need to increase humidity and air movement to keep your Phalaenopsis healthy. In late summer and into fall, Phalaenopsis like a drop in night temperature of at least 10 degrees to initiate flowers. Fluctuating temperature or cold when Phalaenopsis are in bud or bloom may cause premature bud drop.
Water:
Water is an important element for Phalaenopsis as they lack water storage organs other than their leaves. They do not like to dry out and should be thoroughly watered. Do not water again until they are almost dry. This may vary from every day to every ten days depending of environmental conditions. It is important to water in the morning so the leaves have time to dry, which prevents the spread of diseases. Be sure to keep the water out of the center growth point. This will help avoid crown rot, which may be fatal.
Humidity:
Phalaenopsis, like most orchids, like a 50%- 80% humidity range. With increased humidity, always keep air moving. Never allow Phalaenopsis to have moisture on their leaves at nightfall.
Fertilizer:
During the growing season (warmer months), Phalaenopsis should be fed with a liquid growth fertilizer. Going into the cooler season, a bloom booster should be used to promote flowering.
Potting:
Phalaenopsis like to be potted in new growing medium every year. Re-potting is best done in spring and summer when the plant is vegetativly growing. Never re-pot when the plant is blooming. The Off Mix is a good medium grade bark for Phalaenopsis to grow in. New Zealand Sphagnum Moss is also a good medium. When re-potting, discard all old medium and remove damaged roots. Phalaenopsis should be centered in the pot. After re-potting, feed with Dyna-Gro K-L-N to stimulate active root growth.
Copyright © 2008 Orchid Doctor - All rights reserved.
Devon, PA 19333
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