Orchid - Phalaenopsis

Phalaenopsis spp.Also known as: Moth Orchid, Phal

The Phalaenopsis is the most popular orchid for home growing, known for its elegant, long-lasting flowers that resemble moths in flight. Native to Southeast Asian tropical forests, it's an epiphyte that grows on trees. With proper care, blooms can last 2-3 months and plants rebloom annually.

Moderate Care

Bright Indirect Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Bright Indirect Light

Temperature Range
60-85°F (16-29°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 7-10 days, when roots turn silver-green
Summer	Every 5-7 days
Fall	Every 10-14 days
Winter	Every 10-14 days

Water when roots are silver; green roots indicate moisture. Soak and drain method works well. Never let water sit in crown.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Daily or use humidifier
Summer	Daily
Fall	Daily
Winter	Daily

Appreciates humidity 50-70%. Mist roots and leaves, avoiding flowers.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with orchid fertilizer
Summer	Weekly, weakly
Fall	Monthly
Winter	Monthly at quarter-strength

'Weekly, weakly' - dilute fertilizer to 1/4 strength each watering.

Pruning

Frequency: After flowering

Best Season: After blooms drop

Cut spike above a node for possible rebloom, or at base for stronger future blooms. Remove dead roots.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 2 years or when media breaks down

Best Season: After blooming

Use bark-based orchid mix. Clear pots help roots photosynthesize. Trim dead roots.

Flowering

Season
Late winter to spring, lasting 2-3 months

Color
White, pink, purple, yellow, spotted, or striped

Elegant flowers last 2-3 months. Needs temperature drop (10F/5C) at night to initiate blooms.

Propagation Methods

Keiki (baby plant) from flower spike
Division of mature plants with multiple growth points

Common Problems

Bud blast: Sudden temperature or light change
Yellow leaves: Overwatering, natural aging of lowest leaf, or too much sun
No rebloom: Needs cooler night temps (55-65F/13-18C) for 4 weeks to trigger
Root rot: Overwatering - check root color before watering

Pro Tips

Ice cube watering is a myth - use room temperature water
Night temperature drop triggers flowering
Aerial roots are normal and healthy
Clear pots let you monitor root health

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