How to shape Phalaenopsis orchids beautifully, and what thickness of flower stake is suitable?
Phalaenopsis orchids, with their graceful bearing, have always been a "favorite" among many flower lovers; their popularity is such that both beginners and veteran growers are charmed by their flowers. However, in the process of care, besides providing them with suitable light, humidity and water, you also need to give them support stakes to shape the development of the flower branches. Below is a detailed introduction to how to choose shaping stakes for Phalaenopsis orchids and when to start shaping.
First of all, many people buy shaping stakes for Phalaenopsis orchids online, because the price is advantageous. Generally speaking, Phalaenopsis shaping stakes mainly come in two specifications, including No. 2 stakes with a diameter of 2 mm, No. 3 stakes with a diameter of 3 mm, and No. 4 stakes with a relatively high-hardness outer plastic. The first two, No. 2 and No. 3, are the models most chosen by many flower lovers. By comparison, because No. 4 stakes are hard, shaping Phalaenopsis stems with them is relatively difficult. The color choices for the stakes are usually green and coffee.
In terms of selection, if you consider the price, then the No. 2 stake with a diameter of 2 mm is recommended. This kind of stake is usually thinner and the rod is soft, making it easy to control various shaping states, and it is very suitable for the Sireli variety of Phalaenopsis, whose branches are relatively fragile.
As for the No. 3 flower stake with a diameter of 3 mm, it is very suitable for supporting extra-large flower stalk varieties, such as Michelle and Latin Dance Dress Phalaenopsis, because these flower stalks are thicker, and using a No. 2 flower stake may result in insufficient support. Of course, if your main consideration is keeping the flower shape stable rather than shaping it, then choosing a No. 4 stake is more solid and reliable.
It is worth noting that when choosing the length of the stakes, for an ordinary household, it is recommended to choose stakes 40 cm or 80 cm long. If your plant is small, you can cut them as needed later, for example 40 cm + 40 cm or 30 cm + 50 cm. When buying, it is recommended that you do not search for keywords like "Phalaenopsis stakes", but instead choose "handmade floral stakes"; the price may differ, but the material is the same.
After buying them, you can directly insert the Phalaenopsis shaping stakes at the top of the flower stalk, or hide them behind the flower stalk, and finally secure them with orchid shaping clips. The benefit of adding shaping stakes to Phalaenopsis orchids is that you can easily arrange branches of different shapes by hand, and at the same time it can also prevent some thin and weak branches from being broken off.