Could anyone give me some basic instructions on how to care for a
Phalaenopsis orchid.

Hi Leonie, I'm also in the UK and have some phals, I usually water
them by immersing the pot in tepid water about once a fortnight at
this time of year (Once a week or more in summer). A little feed (very
weak) also helps. Be sure to do this in the morning and let them drain
well. Lower leaves do turn yellow, shrivel and fall occasionally, so
long as new ones are coming all's well. Mine live close to an east
window but not on the cill.
jc


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