Phalaenopsis Orchid Care: Our top 5 tips

Each month here at Magnolia the Florist we like to shine a spotlight on some of our favourite plants and share our top tips on looking after them in your home! This month we have chosen the Phalaenopsis - pronounced (fal-en-OPP-sis) - one of the most popular Orchids available to buy in store.  

The Phalaenopsis is an elegant type of Orchid and is often nicknamed the “Moth Orchid” due to the shape of its flowers. It originates from warmer regions such as tropical rainforests and thrives in warm and bright conditions. This Orchid is also known as "Beginners Orchid" as it requires little pruning and watering making it an ideal house plant and long lasting gift for someone special.

Want to send a loved one an Orchid? We have the perfect Orchid gift set available for local delivery. Or if you're in Kettering pop in the shop on Market Street and choose one from our beautiful selection to take home.  

What does a Phalaenopsis look like?

The Phalarenopsis has tall stems for height and broad, leathery looking leaves and stems which flower throughout the year. The flowers of the Phalaenopsis Orchid are always shaped like a moth or butterfly but can range in size, colour and pattern – each has its own unique, exotic personality. Phalaenopsis produces flowers that last about 3 months, but can flower pretty much any time of year.

Top 5 tips for caring for your Phalaenopsis Orchid

1. Place in a light, airy position - It can even handle direct winter sun, just remember to move it when the sunlight becomes stronger around April time.


2. Water once a week - The great thing about Phalaenopsis is they don’t need lots of attention. Water once a week to fully dampen soil, then allow to drain. Don't over water and avoid getting the leaves wet as they don’t like this! Water on the leaves can cause rot and kill the Orchid.


3. Feed your Orchid - Once a month treat your plant to some Orchid plant food, which will really help the flower buds open.


4. Put the central heating on in winter - The ideal room temperature for your Orchid is 18-22 degrees. If it is too hot or cold or the temperature fluctuates often then your Orchid may struggle to bloom flowers.


5. Don’t panic - if your Phalaenopsis blooms suddenly seem to drop in late Spring or early Summer – this is normal and your Orchid will begin blooming again when the air becomes chillier in Autumn.

What to keep your Orchid plant in

Phalaenopsis want to be a house plant and thrive in a potted container. We love the look of the Orchid in a bashed copper metal bowl, which perfectly complements the lush green leaves of the Orchid whilst adding a contemporary twist.

Want some friendly advice about the best house plant for you? Pop in to our Kettering store and our expert florists will be happy to give you some friendly advice. We have a gorgeous range of Orchids and plant accessories such as vases and pots in store, we also have an Orchid gift set available for local delivery in Northamptonshire.

Thank you to thejoyofplants.co.uk for these beautiful Phalaenopsis Orchid photographs.