The elegant phalaenopsis orchid plant is a staple in our South Yarra outlet and online store. This is because they are not only beautiful but are easy to care for and long-lasting when you know what you are doing. Here we run through some tips for how to best care for your phalaenopsis orchid plant and ensure it lasts as long as possible.
Orchids like to be root bound
We recommend phalaenopsis orchids are kept in their garden pots as they like to be root-bound. The garden pots can then be styled inside a larger pot of your choice or a glass vessel lined with bush moss. You may need to pack between the garden pot and outer display pot so that it stays upright and does not wobble. We recommend using whatever packing you have at home such as paper, cardboard or bubble wrap and covering it with moss.
Do not over water orchids
The phalaenopsis orchid is a plant which requires very little water. In fact, sometimes customers bring their beloved orchids into our store crying out for advice because they cannot keep them alive. Nearly every single time the roots are sopping wet which is a sure-fire way to kill them. They only need to be watered when the sphagnum moss inside the garden pot has completely dried out.
The soak and dry watering method
Orchids prefer to be watered using the soak and dry method. To water we recommend removing the garden pot from the larger pot, soaking in water and letting the water drain out of the sphagnum moss completely before returning to its display pot. It should be moist but not wet. You will only need to do this every fortnight or so when the sphagnum moss inside the garden pot has dried out completely.
Orchids prefer a warm climate
Phalaenopsis orchids are a tropical plant so they enjoy a warm humid climate, away from drafts and away from direct sunlight. They’re a bit fussy like that, but once you find the perfect home for them you will find they’re easy to care for. Try a warm and humid room with filtered light such as a bathroom.
Ensuring orchids flower again
Pick the lower flowers off as they wilt and dry up. Eventually you will be left with a bare stem. Cut the stem down to just above the third node (little brown bump on the stem) and continue to fertilize and care for the plant as you would if it were flowering. It will repay you with beautiful blooms again within a year.
You are always welcome to contact our store if you have any questions about caring for your phalaenopsis orchid plants. If you’d like to order a phalaenopsis orchid plant for your home of loved one you can find them on our online flower store.
