Essex Orchid Society
Growing your Phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid) are excellent as a houseplant, suitable for a bright windowsill but not in direct sunlight.
Temperature: 60-80°F (15-26°C). A centrally heated room is suitable but avoid draughts and excessive cold or heat.
Humidity: A little humidity is beneficial but not essential. Never leave the plant standing in water in its saucer or plant pot.
Light: Medium to bright light without strong sunlight. If the leaves are dark, give more light; if they are pale and yellowish give less.
Watering and feeding: Stand in a bowl and water from the top but don't allow water into the crown of the plant. Leave for 30 minutes and then drain thoroughly before returning to saucer or plant pot. Water once a week in summer and once a fortnight in winter. Feed on alternate waterings during spring and summer; monthly in winter. Use orchid fertiliser as directed on the bottle or half-strength houseplant fertiliser.
Potting: Re-pot every 2-3 years when not in flower. Small bags of orchid compost are sold in most garden centres (do not use ornamental bark). Wash pot and remove dead roots from the plant. Return the plant using fresh compost. The upper aerial roots are best left in the air and will die (or break) if forced into the compost.
Variety among Phalaenopsis
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