How to Care for Phalaenopsis Plants

Phalaenopsis plants, also called moth orchids, are fairly easy to care for and thrive in the indoor environment. The temperatures, humidity levels and light conditions inside your home are well suited for the Phalaenopsis orchid. This type of orchid ranges from 2 to 5 inches in diameter, and the blooms come in pink, white, purple and yellow. You can also find Phalaenopsis orchids that come in stripes and spots. Phalaenopsis can live a long time with the right care.

Phalaenopsis orchid plant
Planter
Small dish or tray
Pebbles
High-nitrogen fertilizer
Soapy water
Soft cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Grow your Phalaenopsis indoors for best results. Maintain daytime temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees F during the day and 60 to 65 degrees F at night.
- 2
  Place your Phalaenopsis in indirect sunlight. You can put your orchid in or near a window. Windows that are east- or west-facing, or a shaded southern window, are best.
- 3
  Water your Phalaenopsis once per week to keep the soil moist. Maintain a humidity level of 55 to 75 percent by placing a dish or tray of water under your plant. Place pebbles in the tray so that the pot doesn't sit directly in the water.
- 4
  Feed your Phalaenopsis with a high-nitrogen fertilizer once per month. Mix 1 tsp. fertilizer in 1 gallon of water. Pour a small amount of the mixture into the soil.
- 5
  Repot your Phalaenopsis plant every other year. You can use the same-sized pot, because the orchid doesn't spread when it grows. After repotting, cut back on watering until the new roots are anchored well.
- 6
  Inspect your Phalaenopsis for pests, such as slugs, aphids, mites and scale. Remove any pests using soapy water and a soft cloth.

How to Mount Hanging Orchids on Cork Bark

How to Rehydrate Dendrobium Orchids

Orchids