Growing Phalaenopsis Orchids

When you decide that you want to grow Phalaenopsisdetermining factor in whether you have a flourishing
Orchids, there are some questions that should arise.plant or a sick plant. To begin, try watering the plants
The first question should be what do I need to knowonce every week to ten days. That should be a good
when growing orchids? Well this is your lucky day; youstarting point. However, remember not to get any
have come to the right place. Below you will find awater on the flowers. Water on a flower will shorten
brief description of the different factors you need toits life. Another thing to remember about watering
know to effectively grow Phalaenopsis Orchids.orchids is that the soil or medium that you chose to
What degree of light do orchids need? This is probablygrow the orchid in must not reach the point where it is
going to be one of your first questions if you have anycompletely dry or the orchid will die or at least wilt. On
experience with growing plants indoors. No two plantsthe other hand, if the soil gets too wet, that too can be
are exactly alike. With each different type of plantdetrimental to the plant.
there are different needs for light. Some need directOf the questions and guidelines to growing orchids, the
sun while others need low light. Phalaenopis Orchids willone there is the most disagreement about among
flourish best when placed in or near a window. If it isprofessional growers is the use of fertilizers. Some
possible, use a window that faces east or west assay it is imperative to "feed" a growing flower while
these are the best for this type of plants.others say to completely avoid the use of fertilizers if
Now that you have the basics of light, let's look ata plant is in bloom. More info on fertilizers and home
what temperature Phalaenopis Orchids grow best in.made recipes can be found here.
Orchids in general prefer to grow, or should I say growAttention should be paid to insure healthy plants don't
the best in a temperature range of 55 degrees and 85have any infestation of pests. Orchids are prone to
degrees. Too hot of temperatures will cause theiraphids, mealy bugs, mites, scale, and slugs and should
growth to slow down while temperatures under 55be checked for these intruders regularly. If your plants
can cause unopened buds to fall off the stems of theare so unfortunate as to have one of these pests, do
orchids.not worry, they usually can be taken care of by simply
Another important factor in the growing of orchids isremoving the pests with a soft cloth and some luke
water. I believe that we all know plants need water towarm soapy water.
survive but how much and how often can be the