PHALAENOPSIS

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HABITAT
Phalaenopsis are native to the Philipines, living as epiphytes attached to tree branches under a canopy of taller jungle trees. They wrap their roots around the tree branches to anchor themselves. They do not grow in soil, instead taking nutrients from the debris washed down from above. They are subject to torrential rain during much of the year, but must also withstand a long period of drought annually. They are well adapted to this trying environment.


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LIGHT
Phalaenopsis, along with African violets, are very low level light blooming plants. As such, they flower in the home even away from direct sunlight. They need some protection from direct sun even in the weak light of winter. If you hold your hand a foot above a phalaenopsis and you can see your shadow on the plant, the light’s too strong.


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WATER
More phalaenopsis die from too much water, rather than too little. In nature they withstand water deprivation and cannot abide “wet feet”, standing in water. It rots their roots. Ideally, you would water your plant thoroughly, until the water runs through the potting mix, let it drip dry, and then replace it in its saucer. About one watering every 7-10 days should suffice.


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FOOD
Phalaenopsis are not picky eaters. They survive on rotting vegetation and monkey dung washed down from above. We recommend feeding your plants, weekly and weakly. About ¼ teaspoon of fertilizer per gallon of water is all that is necessary, but at every watering. Phalaenopsis prefer a high nitrogen fertilizer, something like 30-10-10, but any balanced fertilizer will do.


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REPOTTING
The plant is usually comfortable in the same medium for a couple of years. After blooming is best time to repot, usually April-May. If you disturb the roots while the plant is budded, it may abort its buds.


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REBLOOMING
Phalaenopsis blooms in response to cooler temperatures. The most common month to see new bloom shoots protruding from the side of the stem is October, as the household temperature at night dips into the 60’s. Night time temperatures have to go below 70 degrees for about 30 days to initiate budding.