Phalaenopsis

Phals fall into 3 major groups, depending on their backgrounds :

  • Moth types - large flowers - rounded petals much larger than sepals
  • Star types - large flowers - pointed petals same size as sepals
  • Multiflorals - small flowers - often with branched spikes

    • Light

    Low to medium light. Extremes in leaf appearance, such as too yellow and hard, or too dark green and soft, indicate incorrect light conditions. The leaves should be medium green and medium hard.

    Watering

    Do not allow to dry out completely, but also do not keep sopping wet !

    Temperature

    Intermediate temperatures are best. A slight rest in the fall will help to encourage blooming. This can be achieved by reducing the night temperature to 13 or 14 ° C for about 4 weeks in the fall. Water should also be reduced, and fertilizer eliminated during this time.

    Special Notes for Moth types :
    Flower spikes should appear during December to January. When these spikes finish blooming, a secondary spike can be induced by cutting off the old spike 1 cm. above the last unflowered node. (see diagram below)

    This is not recommended for young or weak plants, which should have their old spikes removed completely 3 cm. from their bases. This allows these plants to devote their energy to achieving stronger growth for improved blooming next season.

    Special Notes for Star types :
    New flower spikes should appear in late winter, and old spike may reactivate at the same time. Flowering is activated by increased light levels. When flowering is complete, do NOT remove old spikes unless they turn yellow and die off. Old spikes will often continue to bloom for several years.

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