Phalaenopsis – The Moth Orchid
This term is actually a generic name that refers to Phalaena which is another term for moths. This has something to do with the appearance of the flowers of some species. They resemble large moths in flight. In summary, orchids under this category are sometimes referred to as Moth Orchids. This particular genus can be found in Southeast Asia. The range of these orchids starts in the Himalayas and goes all the way to the Philippines. Particularly the Islands of Pollilio stretching out to northern Australia.
Information about its ecology is scarce since there have been only a few who have done field research on this orchid. Phal orchids are epiphytic and only a few are lithophytes. There are two classifications for this genus, the inflouresence and epiphytes. The former is about 1 meter tall crowned with large rounded flowers. The latter is shorter and less rounded. It has a waxy texture.
Phals excel in their appearance. Chloroplasts turn the flower’s leaves green after the pollination process. And just like other orchid species, the petals draw insects for pollination. Petals are difficult to maintain for the plant and as result they wilt after some time. Growing phals are a sure hit because they are easier to propagate, which has resulted in their rise in popularity. They do not require too much to reproduce. Phals are popular around the house provided they are taken care of. The required temperature range is from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius to grow this plant. It is versatile when it comes to temperature which is an added plus.This genus needs high humidity of about 60 to 70 % and low light.
Orchidists have produced hundreds of hybrids over the decades resulting in more colorful subspecies. Adding to that, is the ease of raising them. Reproducing the plant still needs to be done in a sterilized procedure just like any other orchid. Getting them to flower means dropping the temperature during the night, of course this happens naturally so all owners have to do is wait for a few weeks. Artificial methods to control temperature were established in 2006. Getting the temperature to go down to 27 degrees Celsius in conjunction with night time temperatures will begin the process of getting the baby flowers to bloom. These flowers growth should show up right at the base of each leaf. After three months it should swell out to a fat bud and of course will bloom later on.
Taking care of phals at home is no different from other orchids. You still have to ensure the basic requirements are met; air flow, water drainage, and sunlight. Factors such as the type of pot you use, all play a significant role in keeping your phal orchid in top shape. If you are serious about growing phals, follow the basic steps of handling orchids. The key point here is that they are all sensitive regardless of the species. All are subject to disease, fungi, and parasites. So there is a need to give them the proper chemical and fertilizer treatments. There is also a need to replace the pot. Switching to net pots gives more than enough drainage and air flow. Clear plastic pots give the root system sunlight, this keeps them growing and they won’t be as susceptible to fungus.
When transferring them to another pot, observe the sterile procedures. If it’s your first time to grow a phal, you might want to get an experienced grower to do the procedure for you. The operation is as delicate as medical surgery on the human body. That is how serious it is.
