It marked the beginning of a successful orchid career for many hobby gardeners. The popular Phalaenopsis is the ideal orchid for beginners because it combines tropical blooms with uncomplicated care. This green guide answers important questions about the perfect cultivation program.

The butterfly orchid is very popular with orchid lovers

How do I water the butterfly orchid correctly?

To get a feel for the water needs of a Phalaenopsis as an orchid novice, we recommend dipping the root system instead of watering. How to do it right:

  • If the orchid soil dries, immerse the root ball in lime-free, room-warm water
  • When no more air bubbles rise, lift the pot out of the water and drain well

If you prefer to pour, please use a long-necked pitcher and let the soft water flow very slowly. When the coaster fills up, the current need is covered. The water collected in it is poured out after 15 minutes at the latest.

When and how should a Phalaenopsis be fertilized?

From April to October, a special orchid fertilizer balances the nutrient consumption. Add the liquid fertilizer to the water every third dip or watering. If you are maintaining a year-round flowering Phalaenopsis hybrid, the nutrient supply will continue through the winter. From November to March, of course, extend the fertilization intervals to 6 to 8 weeks.

Can the moth orchid be cut back?

You are doing a good job as an orchid gardener if you never cut off the green parts of your Phalaenopsis. Only use a scalpel, scissors or knife when a leaf or stem has completely died. Until then, if you accept the impaired appearance without hesitation, the circumspection will have a beneficial effect on the vitality and willingness to bloom of your moth orchid.

Some of the most beautiful butterfly orchids are already sprouting fresh buds on the lower stem while the flowers on the upper part are wilting. If you are lucky, just cut off the dried shoot and leave the green stem base for a fresh shoot.

tips

Every 2 years, the care program is supplemented with a change to fresh substrate and a new culture pot. The best time is a day in early spring, just before new shoots begin. When repotting, please be sure to use special substrate for orchids, because conventional potting soil is completely unsuitable for the epiphytic Phalaenopsis.

Category:

Indoor plants