March 15, 2010

Phals are among the most popular orchids in the West. They are easy to grow and suitable for low sunlight conditions.

Modest Light! Phalaenopsis hybrids including Doritaenopsis are best placed away from direct sunlight. An early morning or evening sun will encourage flowering. Inside a green house they require only 20-30% sunlight.

If grown indoors up to 60-100 watts fluorescent tubes and/or 100 watts incandescent lights placed directly above the plants could provide adequate light. This can be less if the plant also receives some natural sunlight at the window.

Flowering thoughout the year! Commercial production of Phals makes flowers available thoughout the year. In their natural cycle they bloom best during eary part of the year and towards the end of the year, in India.

Warm growing! Phalaenospis grow best in a warm environment of 20-32 Deg C during the day and 15 - 20 Deg C during the night time. Fluctuating temperatures are not ideal.

Moisture Loving! Phals love moisture. They should not be let to dry out between watering. The young plants need more moisture than fully grown phals. Humidity is also cruicial for growth and flowering.

Weekly weak fertilizers! NPK 10:10:10 or 14:14:14 is used weekly for good results. The medium should retain water very well and should have good drainage.