Phalaenopsis - (fal-en-NOP-siss)
The Moth Orchid

Origin:     Tropical Southeast Asia and Philippine Islands

Temperature:   The optimal range for growing Phalaenopsis is 60 degrees night and upwards to 87 degrees daytime.  This is considered to be a fairly warm growing orchid.

Light:        Phalaenopsis grow and flower well in indirect or filtered light.  This may be achieved by keeping the plant in an east window or in a south or west facing window with some shading, or by placing the plant away from direct sunlight. Phalaenopsis grow well under fluorescent lights for 14 hours daily.  The lights should be no more than 2 feet away from plant’s leaf surface.

Humidity:  Phalaenopsis enjoy 50-80% relative humidity along with gentle air movement.  Placing the plant in a tray or dish filled with gravel and water will provide the needed humidity.  The bottom of the pot should always be above the water level.

Watering:  Since Phalaenopsis cannot store water for themselves, they should not be allowed to become completely dry.  The potting medium should be kept moist, but not soaking wet.  Always water the plant thoroughly then let it become almost dry and water again.  The frequency of watering should range from 4-8 days depending upon the season.  Water early in the morning on a clear, sunny day to allow the plant leaves to dry by mid afternoon.  Always use tepid or room temperature water.

Fertilizer:   When not in flower feed twice per month using a balanced fertilizer such as 20-20-20 or 18-18-18 at ½ teaspoon per gallon of water.

Orchid plants may be placed into various containers such as plain, aged or patterned terra-cotta pots, ceramic, metal, baskets, glass.

Pricing is dependent upon the variety of orchid, type of container, and number of flowering stems.