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The phalaenopsis orchid is one of the most popular varieties of orchids in the world. The plant is easy to grow and has colorful, delicate, and very charming flowers. In decoration, it is ideal for indoor environments and gardens.
What is the Phalaenopsis Orchid
The phalaenopsis orchid is a type of orchid of Asian origin and stands out for its ease of flowering. According to the orchidist and landscape gardener Ana Paula Lino, the plant is "one of the most common species in the world and has a diversity of colors, sizes, and beauty. Besides this, it is easy to grow and ideal for beginner gardeners.
The little plant has the characteristic to adapt to different environments, such as houses, apartments, gardens, and external areas. Lino also points out that the phalaenopsis orchid "is one of the most common species in flower shops and supermarkets in Brazil". On average, a seedling costs R$ 39. The landscaper emphasizes that the plant without flowers still has more accessible prices throughout the country.
Phalaenopsis Orchid Characteristics
Besides being a beautiful and exuberant flower, the phalaenopsis Orchid has some interesting characteristics that guarantee even more charm in the decoration and can also please different styles:
- According to the landscape designer, "the name 'phalaenopsis' is of Greek origin and means 'resembling a butterfly or moth'. The name refers to the shape of the flowers that resemble insects."
- Phalaenopsis Orchids are considered one of the most popular orchids in Brazil and in the world. The flower calls the attention of plant lovers and collectors, because its blooming can last up to 3 months.
- According to Lino, "phalaenopsis can be grown in pots, trees, or dead trunks, because the flower is epiphytic, that is, it likes to live leaning on trees.
- The variety is also known for having different kinds of colors: "It can be found in white, yellow, light and dark pink, in tinted shades, etc.," says the expert.
In other words, if you don't have a green thumb and dream of taking care of orchids, the phalaenopsis species may be a good option. In the next topic you will learn practical tips to learn how to cultivate it in your home or garden.
How to care for the Phalaenopsis Orchid
In spite of adapting to different soil and climate conditions, phalaenopsis also needs some special care. Below, check out 7 valuable cultivation tips from landscaper and orchidist Ana Paula Lino:
1. fertilization
According to the landscaper, fertilizer is the main food of the phalaenopsis orchid, because it needs these nutrients to remain in bloom: "Fertilizing can be done at least every 15 days and should always be done very early, right after irrigation".product to obtain good results.
2. irrigation
The watering of orchids is very specific. According to the specialist, it "should only happen when the substrate is dry and, therefore, there is no adequate amount of watering per day or per week". Irrigation can also vary according to the seasons of the year. In colder periods, watering tends to decrease, in summer, the plant can receive water more frequently. Finally, Lino affirms thatEach irrigation must be thorough, always with plenty of water and humidity.
3. luminosity
Like most orchid species, the phalaenopsis appreciates an environment with indirect luminosity, but without direct contact with sunlight: "Direct sun can burn its leaves, while low light can prevent it from blooming," says Lino.
4. ideal substrate
"The orchid should be cultivated in pine bark or coconut chips, pure or mixed" and can also receive moss and charcoal in the composition. Lino indicates cultivation in gravel stone, as most orchidists prefer, because the material is inert and ideal for the plant. It is important to remember that the flower does not tolerate old substrate, so it is important to change it every 3 years.
5. seedlings
The phalaenopsis orchid multiplies spontaneously through its flower stalk after each blooming. These new seedlings are also called 'keikis', which means 'baby' in the Hawaiian language. "The seedlings made by seeds are only obtained in laboratories," says the orchidist.
6. flowering
"The tip to guarantee a second blooming more quickly is to make a diagonal cut above the second node of the plant's flower stem, which will have old or dry flowers.
7. life cycle
Finally, Lino affirms that orchids can live 30 to 40 years, "They are one of the few ornamental flowers that have a long life span," he assures.
With these professional tips, you are sure to take good care of your orchid and enjoy all its charm and beauty in your decoration.
Types of Phalaenopsis Orchid
Did you know that the phalaenopsis orchid has exotic varieties that can bring even more charm to your home or garden? Below, learn about 6 types of the flower, according to the landscape designer:
- Phalaenopsis amabilis : "This variety has a white color, like most phalaenopsis." It is native to India and its name means 'enchantment'. Flowering is numerous and takes place in summer.
- Phalaenopsis schilleriana : It has pink flowers and can grow to a length of up to 50 cm. Its distinguishing feature is its green leaves with small black spots. Its blooming period is in spring.
- White Phalaenopsis: "this species corresponds to all phalaenopsis in white color". Moreover, it is very popular in Brazil, because it guarantees a beautiful decorative effect. Its blooming can happen up to 3 times a year.
- Phalaenopsis gigantea: This species is one of the most present in flower shops all over the country. It has large leaves that can reach up to 60 cm in length, while the flowers have yellow and brown tones.
- Phalaenopsis violacea : "is part of the phalaenopsis mini group and has flowers in shades of violet and yellow." The plant usually blooms in the summer.
- Phalaenopsis mini: finally, this variety corresponds to all mini sized phalaenopsis species, produced to have smaller flowers and leaves. It does not have so many growing differences from the normal sized plant.
With these varieties, you can already build up your own collection of phalaenopsis at home. The best thing is that each type can bloom in different seasons, meaning you will have flowers all year round!
See_also: 30 crocheted children's rug ideas to decorate the little ones' cornerLearn more about the Phalaenopsis Orchid
Besides all the tips from the landscaper, you can also find out extra information and curiosities about the Phalaenopsis Orchid. The following video selection has tips that will be important for you to succeed in growing this beautiful flower:
More tips for growing the phalaenopsis orchid
In this video, you will learn about information that will help you in the cultivation of the phalaenopsis orchid. The vlog gives practical tips for planting and fertilizing the flower, as well as choosing the best substrate for planting. You will also follow how the orchid grows and blooms. It is worth watching and taking notes.
How to repot a phalaenopsis orchid
Like all little plants, the phalaenopsis will also grow over the years and will need a new environment to continue developing. In this vlog you will learn how to replant it correctly, ensuring that it always looks beautiful.
See_also: Frozen party: step by step and 85 enchanting ideasHow to make phalaenopsis seedlings
The phalaenopsis orchid remains in bloom for long periods of time, so if you want to increase the production of this plant at home, it is easy to guarantee an always blooming environment. In this video, Ana Paula Lino shares valuable tips to multiply the flower. The specialist explains how to identify your future seedlings and cultivate them correctly after planting.
Another way to grow the Phalaenopsis Orchid
Finally, did you know that there are other containers for growing phalaenopsis? Besides the pot, the flower looks beautiful in a plastic box or on a pine knot, ideal for growing on trees. In this video, you learn how to perform both planting processes at home, ensuring more possibilities for your decoration.
Did you like the tips for growing the phalaenopsis orchid? The plant really has a unique beauty and enchants with colorful and delicate flowers. Another little plant that promises a remarkable blooming is the Bromeliad, it has exotic flowers and can be used to decorate various environments.
