Multifloral
phals have smaller flowers, but
can produce 30 or more flowers on a
single blooming spike.
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TEMPERATURE
AND VENTILATION
Most
phals are happy with warm temperatures of about 75-80 during the day, and around
65-70 at night. A drop in
night temperatures (to about 55-60) for a month, especially during
the fall or spring will induce flowering in season. A Wireless Min/Max Thermometer A
will make this easier to track. Make
sure that there is always adequate ventilation and air
circulation, particularly in the winter, or during very humid
conditions, in order to avoid fungal and bacterial disease.
However, do not subject plants to blasts of cold or hot air.
An oscillating fan that moves air constantly at low speed is
extremely beneficial.
HUMIDITY
Phalaenopsis, like most tropical orchids, like humidity, so try to
maintain about 60-70% humidity, Plants will generally not do well
with less than 50% humidity. Stand plants on water-filled
trays of gravel (making sure plants do not sit in water), and
spray plants with water during warm dry weather in order to
increase humidity. Remember, most orchids can tolerate higher temperatures
if the humidity also rises.
LIGHT
Moth orchids like bright indirect light. They will
thrive in eastern, or shaded western or southern
exposures. Do not place phalaenopsis in full sun. Let the foliage be your
guide: leaves should be medium green, and firm.
Floppy long dark green leaves means that the phal is
not getting enough light. Excessive dark reddish pigmentation
on the leaves may indicate excessive light which can result in
fewer and smaller flowers. Phals can also
be grown very well under lights, especially four foot
floursecent tubes.
Continue
to Part II of this guide>
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