How to Grow Phalaenopsis Modestas

"Sunset Western Garden" recommends Phalaenopsis orchids for the beginning hobbyist to raise indoors. Phalaenopsis modesta is a species of Phalaenopsis orchid native to Borneo. The flowers grow downward, making the plant suitable for a high shelf or hanging container. Phalaenopsis plants have few demands beyond other houseplants, and readily adapt to home growing conditions. Allow newly purchased plants to finish blooming in a sunny east or south window.

Phalaenopsis modesta plant with finished blooms
Sterilized shears
Pot with drainage holes
Peat-based potting medium
Saucer
Clean gravel
Indoor room thermometer
Sunny east or south exposure window
Fluorescent grow lights (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Trim spent flower stalks from the plant. Remove the orchid from its pot. Wash all potting media away from roots with water.
- 2
  Inspect the roots and identify healthy plump, white roots. Cut away damaged and diseased roots that are brown and mushy.
- 3
  Choose a pot sized to hold the remaining root mass and potting medium without crowding.
- 4
  Place the roots and the medium in the pot. Do not pack the potting medium around the roots; they require air circulation.
- 5
  Thoroughly soak the potted plant and allow to drain.
- 6
  Place the pot on the gravel-filled tray. Fill the tray with enough water to come up to below the bottom of the pot.
- 7
  Place the pot in a sunny east or south exposure.
- 8
  Monitor room temperature near the window. Maintain ideal temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees F.
- 9
  Fertilize twice each month with a balanced 1:1:1 fertilizer during spring and summer. Use a 1:3:1 fertilizer in fall when flower buds are setting. Reduce fertilizer by one-half during the dormant winter period.

My Shooting Star Hydrangea Is Infested With Little Bugs

Gnats in My Prayer Plant

Flower Basics