Phalaenopsis or Phal or also called Moth orchid is an orchid genus introduced by Blume in 1825. This genus name refers to phalaena, a name of the moth (Lepidoptera) subdivision given by Carolus Linnaeus, since this orchid closely resembles the shape of a moth

This genus includes about 60 species which are native to the South East Asian region from the Himalayan mountains to the Indonesian archipelago, Malaysia, the Philippines and northern part of Australia. They are mostly epiphytes with a few numbers of lithophytes. In bare nature, some species grow under the shade of moist and wet forests sheltered against direct sunlight. Others grow in environments with dry or cool seasons.

Phalaenopsis does not have pseudobulbs or rhizome usually found in epiphytes. It grows in a single upright stem with some alternating fleshy and thick, elliptical leaves. This growth habit is called monopodial growth. A healthy phal could produce up to ten or more leaves along its stem. The cluster of flowers, either in the form of raceme or panicle grows from the stem between leaves. In the wilderness their full blooming will last for several weeks, while if kept at homes, it might bloom for 2 – 3 months.

Phalaenopsis are very suitable as potted orchids since they are easy to propagate and bloom under artificial conditions. Since the introduction of Phalaenopsis Doris, a tetrapoloid hybrid of this orchid, their growing in homes become very easy assuming that the provided conditions are nearly the same as their native habitat. Phalaenopsis has been commercially produced ever since.

Phalaenopsis orchid care guidelines

Light. Place your phal near or at a bright window. The ideal window spot is an east or west facing window. In gloomy or cloudy days a shady southern window will do best Avoid direct sunlight in mid-days. The most appropriate time is the early morning or in late afternoon sun.

In the absence of sunlight, a fluorescent light is a good substitute by placing it about 1 foot above the orchid. Do not forget to time your light resembling normal daytime length. If a home greenhouse is in your possession, you may as well use a heavy shade cloth to produce a light intensity of 1,000 – 1,500 fc (foot candles) during summer in particular.

Temperature. The preferred temperature for phals is ranging between 55º and 85ºF. To provide ideal growth it is best to set a night temperature of 60ºF and a daytime temperature of 75º – 80ºF.

Cool night temperatures during the fall will promote the initiation of flower spike. Be careful in maintaining the temperature, since too fluctuated temperature may cause failure of the bud to open and may drop off. A temperature exceeding 90ºF will slow down growth.

Humidity. Phals need moderate levels of humidity. The ideal range is between 50% - 75% relative humidity. In heated homes place your phal on a shallow tray which is filled with stones and water to keep the desired humidity near your phal. Make sure that the roots do not immerse in the water.

Water. Phals need to be watered thoroughly. Do not let them dry to the point of wilting. The frequency of watering depends also on the type of potting media that are in use as well as its growing environment. An average of every 7 – 10 days will be sufficient.

Remember that heated homes in winter produces lower humidity which means that you need to water your phal more often. If they dry to the point of wilting it really will be a setback for your pity phal.

Fertilizer. For satisfactory results, applying a slow release fertilizer with an equal proportion of N-P-K will be sufficient. You can use the liquid plant food as well using the equal proportion as recommended on the label and applying it every second time of your watering.

Flowering. The phal flowers are recognized to have a long lifespan. You can even induce the second flowering through timely pruning. What you have to do after the fading of the last flower is to check the spike and look for fleshy bulges or nodes. Count out 3 fleshy nodes and cut the spike about an inch above the third node.

By doing this, a healthy plant will stimulate one or two nodes to produce a cluster of new blooms. Repeating this several times will make it possible for you to enjoy your phal blooming of almost 6 months.

Repotting. As any other orchids, phals need to be repotted. The same reason of repotting also applies to your phal; the outgrowing from its present pot and the condition of the potting media that should be renewed. How to repot your phal have I explained in article specially addressed to this issue

Pest control. The danger of being messed up or hampered by insects or others is still there and can disturb the healthy life of your phal. So, monitor your orchid for aphids, mites, slug and scale. If you find any, remove it with a soft cloth steeped in soapy water. You can also use a pest control product, but make sure to follow the instructions on its label.

Well, that concludes the brief explanation about Phalaenopsis and some guidelines on how to care for your amazing phal.