How to Choose a Phalaenopsis Orchid? Master These Selection Tips
How do you choose an ideal pot of Phalaenopsis? Generally speaking, the best ones have glossy leaves with thickness, abundant leaves and neat arrangement. You should also check whether the leaves are firm and pointing upward, because only then can you tell whether its vitality is strong. If possible, it is best to gently pull out the roots and take a look. If the roots are fresh, or if there are new roots sprouting, this kind of orchid's vitality is reassuring. Next, look at the flowers. First look at the number of flowers. Phalaenopsis orchids are graded by flower count, and the more flowers the better. Buds between 8 and 11 are grade A; buds between 6 and 8 are grade B; fewer than 6 buds is grade C. The price difference between the three grades is 5 to 10 yuan, and this year they fluctuate around 45 yuan, 35 yuan and 25 yuan respectively, while special-grade Phalaenopsis with more than 11 buds is even more expensive. Next, look at the size of the flower, that is, what sellers call the flower diameter, which refers to the largest horizontal dimension of a flower when fully open. At present, a Phalaenopsis flower diameter of 10 cm is considered quite good, and if the flower diameter can reach 12 cm, the flower's quality is undoubtedly very good. Then look at the flower shape: the best ones have compact, round and neat petals. Finally, look at the color and thickness of the petals. At present, most people still prefer pink Phalaenopsis, and the deeper and more vivid the pink, the more popular it is and the more expensive it is. No matter which color of Phalaenopsis, thick petals are better. Good Phalaenopsis flowers are arranged neatly and orderly, with all the flowers facing the same direction and an elegant posture. It should be noted that the above characteristics refer to the most common Phalaenopsis varieties on the current market, while some special Phalaenopsis varieties naturally do not open many flowers, and their flower shape and inflorescence are also unconventional, so prices are hard to generalize. When buying, you need to ask specifically.
When buying Phalaenopsis, you should also note that two flower branches growing from one Phalaenopsis is not necessarily a good thing, because the same nutrients supplied to one flower branch make the flowers larger and more numerous, while supplying two branches often makes the flowers smaller and fewer. However, if two branches divide evenly from one point, the flowers all bloom very well, the ornamental effect is even better, and the price will be a bit more expensive. Phalaenopsis also has the same problems that other flowers have when being sold: if there are wilted flowers and damaged leaves, sellers will remove them before selling. You can pay attention to this. If the arrangement of the flowers or leaves is not very natural, choose carefully. Phalaenopsis currently on the market all have both open flowers and buds. For northern customers and first-time buyers of Phalaenopsis, it is recommended to buy ones with more open flowers and fewer buds, to avoid some buds failing to bloom due to insufficient care experience.