Is Phalaenopsis Alice a large-flowered variety? A detailed guide to how easy it is to grow and how to care for it
Today I'd like to introduce you to a stunning Phalaenopsis - Alice.
Phalaenopsis Alice is a large-flowered variety. When in full bloom, its flowers can reach over ten centimeters in diameter, with broad, spreading petals that seem to dance on the stems. Whether placed in the living room or the study, it adds a touch of elegant, imposing color to the space.
Overall, Phalaenopsis Alice is fairly easy to grow. As long as you master the key care points, even a beginner can help it thrive.
Everyday care:
Light: It likes bright, indirect light, so don't put it in direct sun. Just place it indoors by a window screened with a sheer curtain or in a bright spot with soft light. Strong light will scorch its flowers and leaves and spoil its looks.
Temperature: Suitable temperatures are very important for Phalaenopsis Alice. It likes a warm environment, and generally 15 - 28°C is most suitable. In winter, keep it warm and make sure the temperature does not drop below 10°C, or it may suffer cold damage. When summer temperatures are too high, cool it down and improve ventilation as needed.
Watering: Watering is key. Phalaenopsis Alice has fleshy roots that are prone to rot from waterlogging. You can insert a finger into the potting medium; if it is dry 2 - 3 centimeters below the surface, you can water thoroughly, letting the water run out from the bottom of the pot. Watering frequency depends on the medium. If it is sphagnum moss, you can water less; if it is a well-draining bark mix, you can water a bit more, but still avoid waterlogging. This is especially true in winter, when growth is slow and watering should be controlled even more.
Fertilizing: During the growing season (spring and autumn), you can apply a dilute liquid fertilizer once every 2 - 3 weeks. A dedicated Phalaenopsis nutrient solution works well; dilute it at the lowest concentration stated in the instructions. Before the flowering period, you can appropriately increase the proportion of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer, which helps promote flower bud differentiation and blooming. Be careful when fertilizing not to splash it on the leaves or flowers, or it will burn them.
Points to note:
Ventilation: A well-ventilated environment is essential, as it reduces the occurrence of pests and diseases. You can place Phalaenopsis Alice in a living room with good air circulation or a corner of the balcony, but do not put it where a draft blows directly on it.
Avoid moving it frequently: It is quite sensitive to environmental changes. Once it has adapted to the light, temperature, humidity and other conditions of a certain spot, frequent moving may affect its growth and flowering, so once you have chosen a spot, try not to move it around.
Pest and disease control: Check regularly for pests and diseases. Common anthracnose and soft rot can be controlled with fungicides such as carbendazim. If you find scale insects, you can gently wipe the pests off the leaves with a soft cloth dipped in alcohol, or use a dedicated insecticide, paying attention to the concentration used and safety.