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Old 06-11-2004, 06:32 AM
Shabd-sangeet Khalsa
 
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Default Basic grwoing tips for Phalaenopsis orchids

Orchid Growing tip #1 - The Phalaenopsis orchid in your home or
office.

In the wild, the Phalaenopsis orchid grows in trees. The aerial roots
cling to the bark and branches, the orchid hangs sideways so water
runs off the leaves, and the flowers hang down on a pendulous spike.
The roots are exposed to the air so they can breathe, they have a
layer of velvet-like vellum, which absorbs and holds moisture. Falling
leaves and guano accumulate on the roots, providing nutrients. They
live in the forest canopy with sunlight filtering through layers of
leaves and branches.

Very important: Each type of orchid has different needs; you will have
the best success by knowing the specific needs of each type of orchid
that you grow.

Consider where you would like to place the orchid to receive the most
enjoyment from seeing the flowers.

Look around the area to get a sense of the light, temperature and
humidity. Are there cold windows within three feet, hot dry air from a
heating vent, or is there air conditioning?

How is the light? Does the cool early morning sun illuminate the area?
A Phal. will do well growing under fluorescent lights as it does not
require bright light. It is best to avoid the direct mid-day or
afternoon sun, as the heat will burn the leaves and dry out the
flowers.

Does the room stay above 60 degrees F / 16 degrees C at night? Night
temperatures cooler than this may stress the orchid and shorten the
life of the blooms.

The Phalaenopsis orchid, we'll call it a Phal., may have some flowers
fully open, with buds developing along the spike. It is important to
make sure there is plenty of light for the buds to develop. While the
buds are developing, keep the flower spike pointed toward the light so
that when they open, the flowers will face the same direction.

Take the time to notice which type of growth medium is in the pot; is
it small or medium size bark, moss, round clay balls, or a felt-like
material? Does it hold moisture for a long time or dry out quickly?

The growth medium is important for a number of reasons, which will be
addressed later. For now, water when the pot feels light when you pick
it up. Don't let the growth medium dry out completely between watering
times; this will stress the orchid and may shorten the length of time
the flowers bloom.

Never let this type of orchid sit in water. Take it to the sink, let
the water run through the potting medium for one half to a full minute
and be sure to let all the water drain from the pot. It is best to
water in the morning and make sure to keep the leaf crown dry when you
water; bacterial rot may develop if the water does not evaporate
quickly.

Shabd-sangeet Khalsa, former co-owner of Carson Barnes Orchids
http://orchidessences.com
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