Phalaenopsis is one of the most common orchid species that grows naturally in the moist forest soils of Australia, Southeast Asia and the Philippine Islands. This tropical flowering herb belongs to the Orchid family and differs from other cultures by its numerous snake roots, dense and at the same time fragile leaves with a smooth shiny surface and very beautiful and like fabulous flowers of white, pink, lilac, purple and other shades.
In indoor conditions, the culture prefers moderate watering, does not like an excess of moisture in the soil and stagnant water, has a negative attitude to abundant spraying and is very demanding on the composition of the soil in which it is grown. For the full growth and development of a flowering plant, it is recommended to strictly observe all the rules of care and maintenance, but especially the requirements for watering and air humidity.
Place of cultivation and temperature regime
A flower pot with a plant must be kept in a warm room (at least 18 degrees) under diffused lighting. Direct sunlight is hazardous to crops. The most favorable air temperature in a room with an orchid in winter, spring and summer is from 20 to 24 degrees Celsius. During the fall, a tropical culture will lay flower buds to prepare for winter bloom. That is why, from September to November, the plant requires cooler conditions - from 14 to 16 degrees Celsius. Such conditions can be created for an orchid by rearranging it on the floor or on the balcony.
Watering methods for orchids
To approximate the conditions for growing indoor plants to natural, it is necessary to water in the form of "tropical rain". The orchid itself must take the amount of moisture it needs through the root system. Any glass vessel (for example, a small aquarium) larger than a pot with an orchid should be filled with a small layer of expanded clay, pour water about 1 centimeter in height and put the plant in it. A container with drainage holes at the bottom will allow the indoor flower to take the amount of moisture it needs.
Features of watering and spraying
It is very important that water during irrigation and spraying does not fall on flowers and growth points, as this will lead to their rotting and death of the entire plant. Excess moisture and a constantly damp substrate becomes a source of fungal infections, which thrive in a humid environment and spread very quickly. The fungus is capable of killing an orchid in a short time.
Since the high humidity of the air provides the necessary moisture for the aerial roots of orchids, it is recommended to maintain it with daily spraying, but only in warm months. The fine spray is perfect for these procedures, during which the air around the plants is humidified.
Watering limitation
Watering must be limited if the plant is preparing for future flowering.It is recommended to transfer the container with a room culture to shady conditions with an air temperature of about sixteen degrees Celsius, and significantly reduce the volume and frequency of watering.
Irrigation water quality
The quality and temperature of irrigation water is of great importance for the full development of orchids. You can use ordinary tap water, but always after settling it for a day. Soft, settled water at room temperature is ideal for orchids. Experienced growers are advised to take filtered or purified water with a temperature close to the air temperature in the growing room or 2-3 degrees more.
