More Phalaenopsis Moth Orchids

It is easier to call a Phalaenopsis by its common name of Moth Orchid

This moth orchid (called Phalaenopsis) is blooming for a second time this year and the last blossom lasted over 5 months. On one arching stem there are 12 flowerheads and one unopened bud but there is also 4 other stems at different stages of flower production and at least 25  2½” diameter flowers are currently on display. This floriferousness may be due to a happy accident after the first (and only) stem flowered I followed received wisdom. I trimmed off the spike to around 1 inch above the first node on the spike stem, somewhere below where the first flower had appeared, near a little bump. The stem regrew but horizontally and I wanted to tie it up a cane. Being too vigorous I broke the new flowering stem but all the new ones have turned up at the funeral so to speak.

Moth Orchid Growing Tips

Phalaenopsis Roots Roots are more important than leaves for the health of your Orchid. A good orchid requires a strong root system. Good roots need access to air, in the wild the plants are Ephites that hang from trees. Give roots a very open orchid growing medium. I add coarse bark. Younger Phalaenopsis typically thrive on repotting as it stimulates root growth.

Orchid compost is available from Amazon