Phalaenopsis Orchid Temperature

Suitable Outdoor Temperatures

• Phalaenopsis are tropical orchids that require warm temperatures for successful cultivation. According to the Online Plant Guide, United States Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 and 11 offer temperatures suitable for growing Phalaenopsis orchids. The United States National Arboretum states that the average annual minimum temperature for USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11 is 35 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer.

Daytime Temperatures for Indoor Phalaenopsis

• Phalaenopsis are often grown indoors, where it is much easier to simulate their native climate. This is because the temperatures that Phalaenopsis orchids enjoy are similar to the temperature range in which humans are comfortable. The American Orchid Society recommends providing moth orchids with daytime temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees F. Phalaenopsis orchids don't perform well when their daytime temperatures fluctuate; use a programmable thermostat to provide your orchid with an indoor climate that is as consistent as possible.

Nighttime Temperatures for Indoor Phalaenopsis

• At night, Phalaenopsis orchids need temperatures that are 10 to 15 degrees F. lower than their daytime temperatures. Providing cooler nighttime temperatures allows Phalaenopsis to save up the carbohydrates that they need to produce healthy blossoms, according to the Washington State University Extension. The American Orchid Society notes that the ideal nighttime temperature for Phalaenopsis orchids is between 60 and 65 degrees F. If your orchid does not consistently receive this nighttime cooling period, it may produce healthy foliage but no blossoms.

Force Indoor Phalaenopsis to Bloom

• Phalaenopsis orchids that are grown indoors don't receive the seasonal cues necessary to let them know its time to start blooming. If it's been awhile since your Phalaenopsis has bloomed, you can re-create these seasonal cues in your home to force the orchid to start producing blossoms. The Colorado State University Extension suggests providing the orchid with two months of nighttime temperatures down to 50 degrees to initiate its blooming cycle. For best results, move the orchid to a completely dark room for eight to 12 hours each night to provide an even starker contrast between night and day.