How to choose a Phalaenopsis orchid when buying one, and how many flowers is appropriate?

In recent years, when visiting flower markets, many shops make Phalaenopsis orchids their main flower because of their elegant posture, and when in bloom they are even more beautiful and lively, like dancing butterflies. Regarding care, some sellers claim that Phalaenopsis orchids can bloom all year round. Is this true? Is it easy to achieve at home?

If you want it to bloom all year round, then of course when buying you must choose a strong plant, because only high-quality flowers can take the fewest detours. So how can you avoid being deceived by the shop? What should you pay attention to when buying?

First, when selecting, look at the leaves. Try to choose one whose plant grows sturdy and upright, with leaves arranged neatly and uniformly, not one leaf crooked here and another slanting there. Second, there should be at least 5 leaves; if there are 8, that is even better. When you touch the leaves with your hand, they should feel thick and substantial, with a glossy, emerald green color, and there should be no yellowing or diseased spots. If there are a few old leaves, they should not droop softly, and there should be no thin, elongated, leggy leaves.

Then look at the flowers. The flower stem must be thick and sturdy, not too long or too short, and the overall plant shape should look pleasing, not strange. The number of flowers is best at 8 or more; if you can find one with more than half already open, that is even better. As for the petals, of course they should be wide and bright; the color should not be dull or dark but vivid. Fully open flowers should be firm, not soft or shrunken, and the color of the buds should not become pale or wilted, otherwise the flower's condition is not good.

Next, also look at the root system, because the roots affect the growth of the entire plant. Through the transparent pot, observe that individual roots should be thick and strong, and at the same time new roots should be growing. Normally healthy roots should generally be white; roots growing along the pot wall and exposed to the air are tender green, and the root tips are purplish red. Note here that there must absolutely be no rotten roots or shriveled conditions. After observing, gently shake the plant; only choose it if you feel no sign of looseness.

Finally, also check whether there are pests or diseases. If small insects are attached among the leaves, buying it will be troublesome; it will soon wilt and may also infect other plants at home.