What is the best way to handle a Phalaenopsis orchid after its flowers fade? How long does the flowering period generally last?

Phalaenopsis orchids are much loved by gardening enthusiasts for their outstanding appearance, and in recent years they have become one of the must-have flowers for Chinese New Year, with people also giving them beautiful meanings. However, after buying them home, many enthusiasts say they cannot care for them well; some flowers fade after blooming for just 3 months. What should be done? Originally wanting to enjoy the flower's beauty, now it seems a pity to throw it away, but keeping it at home feels unattractive.

Phalaenopsis is a flower native to tropical rainforests, so its care differs from that of other flowers. At the same time, because in recent years growers have grafted and extended orchids into many varieties, differences in constitution are also likely to exist. For example, the common yellow, purple and red main color tones are usually easier to grow than some dark yellow, pink, fragrant, or uniquely patterned varieties. Secondly, you can also touch the texture of the petals; petals that feel hard and waxy are also relatively less likely to fade.

Generally speaking, with normal care the flowering period of Phalaenopsis can last as long as 3-5 months. So after the flowers bloom and fade, how should it be handled? Some people throw it away directly, while others can make it bloom again. How exactly is this done? First, after the flowers fade, the spent flowers and leaves should be dealt with. It is recommended to cut from 1 cm above the flower stalk, and be sure to use sharp, sterilized scissors.

Next, remove all the old sphagnum moss from the pot, and find and cut off any roots that are rotten or hollow. After cutting, place the Phalaenopsis roots in diluted disinfectant solution and soak them for 3 to 5 minutes to thoroughly disinfect the bacteria on the roots, then place the roots in a cool place to dry for one day.

Finally, on the second day, you can first soak the new sphagnum moss until it expands, usually 10 minutes is enough, then wring it out and set it aside. Replant the dried orchid: grab a large handful of sphagnum moss, form it into a ball, stuff it among the roots to spread the roots open, then continue adding sphagnum moss to wrap the roots. At this point be sure to press firmly around all sides with your hands. After wrapping, put the roots back into the original transparent pot, then keep stuffing in sphagnum moss until the pot, moss and roots fit tightly together.