AboutOrchids

If your Phals, or Moth Orchids, aren’t in bloom right now, here’s a useful, fun fact: 3 weeks of cooler temperatures in early autumn can trigger new flower spikes. Typically, Phals don’t want temps below 65°F (18°C.) To mimic a cool spell in their Southeast Asian homes, let them drop to 60°F (16°C) at night, and keep them below 81°F (27°C) during the day. After 3 weeks, return them to their regular warm temps. You won’t notice any immediate changes, but within a month flower spikes should emerge. The spikes can grow for weeks before their blooms open.

Remember that there may be reasons why an orchid isn’t blooming, and this fun Phal fact won’t eliminate the need for bright light, regular water, good humidity, and fertilizer. Normally, cool temps can inhibit a Phal from blooming, but a limited exposure at this time of year can kick them into gear. Then you’ll have great fall colors to enjoy.

Explore posts in the same categories: Growing, Photos, Warm Growers

This entry was posted on Friday, September 16th, 2011 at 4:45 pm and is filed under Growing, Photos, Warm Growers.

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