Can You Water a Phalaenopsis Orchid While It Is Blooming? Learn the Correct Watering Method

Many flower lovers find that once their Phalaenopsis (moth orchid) enters its blooming period, improper watering often leads to early flower drop and wilting leaves. So here is a rundown of water management and care tips for Phalaenopsis during its blooming period.

Phalaenopsis is an epiphytic orchid whose roots serve the dual function of absorption and photosynthesis. It is sensitive to water, and during the blooming period you must strictly follow the principle of "water only when dry, and when in doubt, err on the dry side"

Watering frequency: In an indoor environment at 20-25°C with humidity of 50%-70%10-15days is recommended1 time; when the temperature drops or ventilation is poor, this can be extended to once every 20days/time.

Watering amount: A single watering should leave the potting medium slightly moist, avoiding waterlogging. When growing in sphagnum moss, make sure the medium drains completely within 1-2hours after watering.

Watering method: Give priority to the bottom-soak method (soak the pot for 10-15minutes), or slowly water in a ring around the inner wall of the pot. Never spray water directly onto the flowers or the leaf crown, to prevent bacterial growth that causes rot.

When the plant shows the following symptoms, you need to water it immediately as an emergency rescue:

1.Leaves are wrinkled, thin and soft: soak the pot in room-temperature clear water until the potting medium is completely moist.

2.Flowers are shriveled and drooping: soak the pot first to replenish water, then shorten the watering interval to 7-10days

3.Roots turn from green to white and feel dry and hard: soak the pot twice in a row, with an interval of 3days

Care tips during the blooming period

Water quality: Preferably use tap water or rainwater that has been left to stand for 24hours, and avoid using untreated water with excessively high chlorine content.

Humidity: Use a humidifier or a water-filled tray to keep the ambient humidity at around 60%

Light: Keep the plant in a bright, indirect-light environment with 4-6hours of light per day; direct strong light will accelerate flower fading.

Blooming period care precautions

1. Absolutely no fertilizing: Fertilizing during the blooming period disrupts the plant's nutrient balance, speeds up flower metabolism and causes premature fading. It is recommended to give the first feeding 15days after the flowers fade, using orchid fertilizer diluted 1500times.

2.Avoid sudden environmental changes: Keep temperature and humidity stable, avoid cold drafts and direct air-conditioner airflow, and keep temperature fluctuations within ±5°C

3. No frequent moving: Frequent moving easily causes plant stress and affects flower development, so it is recommended to choose a spot and keep it fixed.