Cultural Notes for Phalaenopsis Orchids
Phalaenopsis orchids have become popular as house-plants due to their ease of culture and beautiful, long-lasting flowers. The name, Phalaenopsis, means “moth-like”, and in their native Philippines the wild species are said to resemble flights of moths in the jungle. Modern Phalaenopsis hybrids are very colourful and can be found in white, yellow, pink and with spots and stripes. The wedding favourites are the large white flowers with yellow on the lip. These flowers will last for months with proper care. When the first spray of flowers is over, cutting the stem just above the third or fourth node can sometime initiate a side stem giving more flowers. This should only be done when plants are in good health and growing vigorously. Small plants should have their blooms removed after about 6 weeks to encourage growth for the next year’s blooms.