Your Guide to Growing Healthy Phalaenopsis Orchids in the Tropics

Commonly known as the ‘moth orchid,’ Phalaenopsis orchids are among the longest-blooming orchid varieties, with flowers that can last up to two months—even in Bali’s hot, humid climate—before wilting. Mature orchids may bloom two to three times per year.

The longevity of your orchid’s blooms depends on the care it receives. While the blossoms are undoubtedly the highlight, maintaining them requires patience, attentiveness, and an understanding of your environment’s humidity levels to ensure the orchid thrives through its development.

More About Phalaenopsis

The Phalaenopsis orchid is the most common type of orchid, known for its ease of reproduction, which makes it readily available at most nurseries throughout the year. These orchids are ideal for home cultivation, as they bloom significantly longer than many other types of flowers. Unlike other orchids, Phalaenopsis can be repotted at any time, although it is generally best to do so when the plant is not in bloom.

To thrive, orchids require indirect light and consistent moisture. They flourish as houseplants, growing and flowering well in moderately bright windowsills. Each year, a healthy orchid will produce one or two new leaves. After this growth phase, a bloom spike typically emerges from the stem beneath the second or third leaf from the top. (Tips for encouraging regrowth and reblooming of orchid plants are provided at the end of the article.)

How to Care for Phalaenopsis Orchids

1. Environment: Provide a mild, warm, and somewhat humid environment. The ideal temperature range is between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius.

2. Light and Airflow: Avoid direct sunlight and constant drafts from air conditioning, as these conditions can quickly dry out the leaves and blooms.

3. Watering: Spray water on the root soil 1 to 2 times weekly, adjusting based on the humidity and moisture of the roots. If the roots still feel moist, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

4. Pest Control: If you notice any signs of pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap.

5. Leaf Care: If the leaves become dusty or dirty from water mist, gently wipe them with a damp cloth to maintain their shine.

6. Handling Blooms: Avoid any frictional contact that may bruise or damage the delicate flowers, especially when moving them.

How to Care for Cut Orchids

When you receive bouquet requests that include cut orchids or arrangements made entirely of cut orchids, follow these tips to prolong their shelf life:

1. Stem Care: Cut approximately 0.5 cm from the end of each stem every 2 to 3 days to promote water absorption.

2. Water Temperature: Place the orchids in room-temperature or cold water; avoid using warm water, as it can shorten their lifespan.

3. Water Change: Change the water every two days to keep it fresh and free of bacteria.

What to Do with Leftover Orchids and How to Rebloom Them

As mentioned earlier, Phalaenopsis orchids can bloom two to three times a year under the right conditions. When your orchid is not flowering, you can still preserve the plant as long as its roots and leaves remain healthy. To help prolong the plant's life and encourage new flowers (and potentially a new stem) in tropical climates like Bali, follow these steps:

1. Maintain the Stem: Keep the existing flower stem healthy by watering the plant base to prevent it from completely drying out. If the flower stem has turned brown, leave it as is; there is still a possibility of regrowth from that stem.

2. Check for Rot: Inspect the roots for any signs of rot and remove any damaged roots from the plant base.

3. Trim Yellow Leaves: Remove any yellowing leaves caused by sun exposure or overwatering, trimming them from the inner core of the plant.

4. Remove from Decorative Container: Take the plant out of its decorative pot and remove the plastic grower’s pot.

5. Use Natural Materials: In Bali, you can find coconut husks or dried coconut shells, often cut into crescent shapes. Use these to cover the orchid's base. If coconut materials are unavailable, dried moss can serve as a good alternative.

6. Attach to a Host Tree: Secure the plant to the bark of a wide tree branch (such as a frangipani tree) using wire or string around the base covered with coconut shell/husk/moss. Other suitable trees include mango trees, large palm trees, and coconut trees.

   • Attaching the plant to tree bark allows the orchid’s roots to latch onto the host, creating a symbiotic relationship. This setup promotes healthier growth in open air with sufficient humidity.

7. Watering: Ensure the plant receives enough daily moisture without overwatering its roots. The coconut shell/husk/moss acts as a natural holder, facilitating drainage of excess water.

8. Regular Care: Continue watering the plant base two to three times weekly, adjusting as necessary. Check the roots to gauge moisture levels.

In three to four months, you should begin to see new buds appearing on the existing stem or a new stem.