Phalaenopsis cultivation methods and precautions

Phalaenopsis is very popular, but many people find it difficult to care for. The problem is that they may not have mastered the correct maintenance methods, and problems often arise when they treat it as an ordinary plant. If you want to grow Phalaenopsis well, let’s learn about the cultivation methods and precautions of Phalaenopsis below.

1. Avoid using sphagnum moss for maintenance

Most Phalaenopsis orchids on the market are grown with sphagnum moss, which has strong water retention properties. In a well-ventilated environment, the moisture in the sphagnum moss will evaporate quickly; but indoors, the moisture is not easy to evaporate, which can easily lead to root rot. Therefore, it is not recommended to use sphagnum moss, and you should choose a medium with fast drainage and good air permeability.

2. Avoid using large basins

Many people move Phalaenopsis orchids to larger pots, which is not conducive to maintenance because Phalaenopsis orchids have relatively strong roots but fewer in number. Large pots will cause water to evaporate slowly and increase the risk of root rot. Small, shallow pots should be chosen to ensure that the soil dries quickly and remains appropriately moist.

3. Avoid mixed planting of multiple plants

Planting multiple Phalaenopsis orchids in one flowerpot may have a good ornamental effect, but problems may easily arise in their later growth. The root systems of different plants vary in strength, and uniform watering can easily lead to root rot in some plants. It is recommended to plant one plant per pot and use special soil for orchids , and avoid using nutrient soil or garden soil.

4. Avoid strong light

Phalaenopsis prefers diffuse light rather than direct light. Direct sunlight can shorten the flowering period, cause the flower stems to dry out, and even cause the leaves to turn yellow. Phalaenopsis should be placed in a diffuse light environment and avoid direct sunlight.

5. Avoid dry maintenance

Phalaenopsis requires moist soil, and once the roots dry out it is difficult to recover. The soil should be kept moist and watered in time to avoid drought that may cause the roots to dry out.

6. Avoid over-fertilization

When applying fertilizer, the concentration should be controlled to avoid burning the roots and leaves. Phalaenopsis orchids should be fertilized according to the principle of "thin fertilizer and frequent application", fertilizing 2-3 times a month, and the concentration should be controlled between 1:1000 and 1:1500.

7. Avoid low temperature environment

Phalaenopsis likes warmth and is easily frostbitten when the temperature is below 5 degrees. The ambient temperature should be kept above 15 degrees to ensure its normal growth and flowering.

To sum up, use small pots and special soil for orchids, keep the soil moist, avoid strong light, apply fertilizer properly, and maintain a suitable temperature, and Phalaenopsis will bloom every year.