Phalaenopsis – Everyone’s Favourite Orchid featuring Floristry Tips from Su Whale

There’s no getting around the enduring popularity of the Phalaenopsis orchid and it’s not difficult to see why; it is low maintenance, easy to care for and capable of flowering for weeks, if not months, on end.

Native across the southern hemisphere from India to Australia, although the majority are found in Indonesia and the Philippines, there are approximately 70 species of Phalaenopsis. The name is from the Ancient Greek word phalaina or kind of moth, and opsis which means ‘like’, hence their common name ‘Moth orchid’.

Mother’s Day is an occasion when these moth orchids fly out of the door, so to make sure that your customers get the best out of them, here are the answers to some common Phalaenopsis questions.

Floristry Tips from Su Whale

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HOjpf2HecQ

For more video content visit the Interflora Floristry Trade Club Video Library

Where should I keep it in the home?

Orchids need lots of bright light, but don’t want to be scorched by direct sun through glass, so a west or east-facing windowsill is ideal.

How often should it be watered?

Orchid roots have a nifty trick, they turn silver when dry and green when wet, so if the orchid is in a clear plastic orchid pot it’s easy to spot when they need watering. The key is not to overwater as they will rot if left to sit in wet compost, so if the orchid is in a pot cover, take it out before watering to check. Rainwater is better for the plant if you are in a hard water area.

Does it need feeding?

Like a most plants, orchids need feeding only during their growing season, March to October. Once a month is adequate.

What do I do with it once the flowers have faded?

Cut the flower spike back to the first node below the old flowers, not right back to the base. You can help to encourage them to re-flower by moving them into a cooler room for a few weeks, but don’t forget to continue watering and feeding.

Displaying Orchids for Sale

Phalaenopsis prefer to have their roots exposed, so showing them off in clear glass vases is not only stylish but is perfect for their care needs.

The flower spikes are pliable enough to train around a framework, so use this to add visual value to the plant.

Create a long-lasting centrepiece by planting mini orchids in a low bowl. A great talking point for your orchid display!

---

Su Whale is a florist and freelance writer with over twenty-five years' experience in the floristry industry. She is the author and publisher of three best-selling books: Cut Flowers, 4th edition (2020) Cut Foliage, 2nd Edition, (2021) and Houseplants (2019), all bookshelf essentials for the professional florist.