So What is This About?

This image will illustrate floats Are they difficult to keep?
No, it is not true that Phalaenopsis require the attention and upkeep that is still widely believed. To succeed you need to find a spot in the house where the plant is happy and then water it approximately once a week, feed it once a month and leave for the rest of the time. They must not stand in water, so let the pot drain after watering and not place it in direct sun. A North or East-facing windowsill can be good but it depends on the conditions in your house. Detailed instructions can be found on the Phalaenopsis page.

What position do they like?
Phalaenopsis like a light, but not direct sun, position. They like a fairly constant temperature of approximately 18-26 degrees celsius, which will be fine in most centrally, heated homes. They also like humidity so can be misted with rainwater with a hand-sprayer once or twice a day if desired. Kitchens and bathrooms can be good as long as the temperature doesn't drop and rise heavily.

How do I water and feed it?
It is best to water your plant on average 7-10 days. Look for the roots starting to turn white and look drier, after watering the roots will look fleshy and green. They do not like too much water, so it would better to dry out a little then be over watered. The plant will also be a lot lighter in weight when it dries out and/or the leaves may look limp: this can also be over-watering but you would know which by the weight and dampness of the compost. Feeding is done once every 4th watering with a specific orchid feed.

How long will my Orchid live for?
Your orchid, if loved for, could last for years. They can flower for six months of the year or more, and will then re-flower the speed of this will vary plant to plant. It may take some months, but it will keep flowering again for many years.

How and when do I re-pot?This image will illustrate floats
After purchasing or receiving a phalaenopsis the plant would normally be repotted after 12 months. Re-pot the plant after it has finished flowering, it needs re-potting into an orchid (bark based) compost. It is also best to re-pot into a clear pot the same size, if the roots are not too large (SEE PIC). The compost and pots are available here.

Are orchids expensive?
While they may be at a premium to some other houseplants they must be compared fully. It is an exotic plant that will flower beautifully in the home for 2-3 months or more at a time, and re-flower again and again for years. They can require very little attention in the right position, which is advantageous as time is precious. It is also worth noting that the plant you have is approximately 3 years old and has been grown at 20 degrees celsius and above.

What do I look for when buying?
Firstly the flowers should look healthy and not wilting at all. The leaves should be a healthy fleshy green (also a bit succulent to touch). If you can see the roots they should be fleshy and green/white in colour. Do not be put off by roots growing out of the pot, this is a good sign of a healthy plant and is a feature of the plant.

Can I use a pot cover (ceramic or other)?
Yes the plant will live in a pot cover, but it is best to take the plant out again if it shows signs of wilting. We would advise taking it out of the cover and letting the roots have light after flowering to help encourage re-flowering. You should also check that it dose not stand in water after watering, for best results water and stand the plant to drain before replacing in the pot cover.