How To Care for Phalenopsis Orchids (Moth Orchids)
Orchids are a great way to liven up a space.Once you get used to them, it's easy to take care of them.They need to get the right balance of light, water, and nutrition.There are 8 tips for caring for a orchid.
Step 1: The mixture is meant for orchids.
If you want to fit the roots of your orchid in a small pot, choose one that is big enough to do the job.If it has drainage holes in the bottom, you can put a saucer under the pot.The bottom of the pot should be covered.The plant should be placed in the center of the pot with the leaves hanging just above the rim.If you want to fill the gaps between the roots, add more potting mix.Continue filling the pot until you reach the base of the lower leaves.Don't use a pot that's too big for your plant.It holds excess water, which can rot the roots.Don't leave any air bubbles between the soil and the roots.It's best not to use regular houseplant soil to pot your orchid.After the plant is grown, water it.
Step 2: Water should be poured over the mixture.
Wait until water runs through the bottom of the pot.Water can rot the roots if left in the saucer underneath the pot.Wait to water your orchid until it's completely dry.This will help you avoid over watering.Water the mix.Plants can be damaged by watering the flowers or leaves.It is possible to put the orchid pot in the sink.It's better to be underwater than in the water.It can cause the roots to rot.
Step 3: You can use half or a quarter strength.
These are in powder and liquid form.Follow the dosage requirements if you check the container label.After you water your orchid,fertilize it.Don't feed the plant every fourth time you water it.Orchids don't need to feed as much.Orchids don't need as many vitamins and minerals as other plants, so the ingredients and dosage recommendations for regular fertilization are too strong for them.The orchid can be damaged by over-fertilization.If the tips of the leaves start to turn brown, you may be overfertilizing your plant.There is a solution if you notice it.To get rid of the excessfertilizer, flush the mixture with water.
Step 4: Your orchid requires 8 hours of indirect sunlight each day.
The orchid can be kept by an east or west-facing window.To make sure the sunlight gets to the leaves, Dust off the plant with a wet cloth.Dust can make it hard for the sun to reach the plant.Don't display your orchid in the sun.It can be too harsh on a plant.Plants can get sunburns.It's a good idea to move your orchid to a shady spot during the summer.You can protect your orchid from the sun.
Step 5: The temperature should be 19–30 C during the day.
If you want your plant to cool off, adjust the temperature in the evening.The temperature should be 16–19 C.If your plant doesn't seem to be flowering, try lowering the temperature by 5C for four weeks.This can help your plant grow.
Step 6: Under the flowers, trim the flowering stalks back.
Orchid flowers last about 3 months.Cut the flower with scissors if you notice it is starting to lose its color.It will be hard to part with the gorgeous bloom, but this will help ensure another flower in the future.
Step 7: This usually lasts about 2 years.
Carefully remove your orchid from the pot.You might have to break the pot to not hurt the plant.Pick off the leaves with your hands.The dead bloom stalks should be removed as well.Cut off dead roots with a razor blade.Don't forget to water the plant after the job is done.Live roots are much more solid than dead roots.Pay attention to the condition of the mix.It's time to repot your orchid if the bark chips are starting to degrade.Do not repot your orchid while it's growing.You don't lose those beautiful flowers if you wait until they have finished blooming.
Step 8: It's important to check your orchids for bugs to avoid any damage.
If you only notice a few bugs on the orchid, spray them with water.You can use alcohol to remove them from the plant.If you notice an insect problem, use soap or oil to get rid of them.Dosage instructions can be found on the product label.Don't use pesticides on your plants.These are not meant for indoor plants.