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Phalaenopsis
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Phalaenopsis or called "moth orchids”, grow naturally in the Philippines and various locations in Southeast Asia. They are epiphytic, wrapping their roots around the branches of trees and not growing in soil. They grow in warm, tropical forests under a canopy of trees, and so thrive in low light. They are adapted to high humidity, but also have to survive an annual dry season. Their roots are coated with a grey waxy film which enables them to withstand even severe water deprivation.
LIGHT
Phalaenopsis likes about the same light as African violets, an hour or two of direct sun before 10 A. M. or after 5 P. M. in summer and as much light as they can get in winter. Too much light will lead to yellowing or browning of the lower leaves and too little light may cause the plant not to flower.
CARE
Because phalaenopsis are not used to growing in soil, over watering in the home is a greater danger than under watering. These orchids are adapted to withstanding periods of drought and a few extra days without water is preferable to over watering. They do, however, appreciate high humidity. Some hobbyists set them in a tray filled with pebbles and water below the pebbles to increase humidity for them or mist them.
FEEDING
The watchword for feeding phalaenopsis is “weekly, but weakly”. A fertilizer high in nitrogen is their favorite. On the label the ration of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be 3-1-2, something like 15-5-10. Orchids do not grow rapidly and do not feed heavily. Feed them at the lowest end of the recommended dosage.
FLOWERING
Phalaenopsis orchids re-bloom readily in the house. In October, place the plant near the window so that it can feel cooler temperatures, around 60 degrees. After 3-4 weeks of cooler temperatures, it will send up a flower spike from the stem. It may take 3-4 months for the first flower to open but the plant may also hold its flowers for up to 3 months. Phalaenopsis blooms just once a year, but it’s a spectacular show. After the plant finishes flowering in the spring, cut off the withering bloom spike. If the plant has grown too large for its current pot, repot in the spring. These orchids like some elbow room and will climb over the rim of the pot looking for it, so size the pot generously.
