Just got a Phalaenopsis? Here's how to tell if it's good or bad - beginners only need these 5 points

Recently, beginner flower lovers have been complaining that the Phalaenopsis they just brought home from the flower market wilted after only a few days. In fact, the problem most likely started at the"seedling selection" stage! Today let's talk about how to quickly judge whether a Phalaenopsis you just got is good or bad. Beginners who follow along can basically avoid80% of the pitfalls.

First, look at the most obvious thing - the state of the flowers. A good Phalaenopsis in bloom is definitely full of energy. The petals feel thick and springy to the touch, the color is bright and not grayish, and even the outermost petals are not wrinkled or wilted. If you see black edges or spots on the petals, or some buds have already shriveled up, then it was most likely suffocated during transport or was already in poor condition. Never take one like this. Also pay attention to the flower spike: a healthy flower spike is firm and upright, and even with many flowers it will not bend severely. If the flower spike is limp and wobbles at the slightest touch, it will easily topple over entirely later.

Next, focus on the roots - this is the lifeline of the Phalaenopsis! When buying, whether it is in a transparent pot or a ceramic pot, try to dig around and take a look (don't worry about the trouble; the seller can usually understand). Healthy roots should be white or light green, feel springy like rubber, and you can still see fine crystal tips on the root hairs - that is, the tiny transparent bump at the root tip, which is a sign that new roots are about to grow. If you see roots that are black and sticky, or that break with a light pull and are hollow inside, then they are definitely rotted. This kind of flower is very hard to save after buying, no matter how cheap it is, don't get it.

Then look at the leaves. The condition of the leaves can reflect the underlying quality of the Phalaenopsis. A good Phalaenopsis usually has2-4 leaves, arranged neatly and not crooked. The leaves are dark green, glossy on the surface, thick and smooth to the touch, with no yellow spots, black spots, dried tips, or curled edges. Some beginners think "the more leaves the better," but that is not true. As long as the leaves are healthy,2-3 leaves can also grow very well. On the contrary, too many leaves that are also thin and weak may mean a lack of light and fertilizer during care, and flowering later will be very difficult.

Next, look at the potting medium. Don't underestimate the potting medium - it can help you judge whether the seller is trying to fool you. Phalaenopsis potting medium is generally sphagnum moss, bark, or coconut husk. Good potting medium should be fluffy, with no moldy smell, and not dripping wet - if the potting medium feels sticky, or even has a sour smell, then it was most likely overwatered and the roots were suffocated, and it will easily rot after you buy it. Also look at the pot. A transparent plastic pot is actually the best, as it makes it easy to observe the roots. If it is in a non-breathable ceramic pot and also packed with wet soil, then you can basicallypass on it.

Finally, let me teach you a little trick - gently shake it. A healthy Phalaenopsis has roots that grip the potting medium very firmly. If you gently shake the pot, the plant will not wobble back and forth. If it feels like the roots are "rattling around" inside at the slightest shake, then either there are too few roots or the roots have already rotted hollow, and this kind of flower will wilt within a few days of arriving home. Also, take a sniff. A normal Phalaenopsis only has a light floral fragrance (if it has flowers). If you smell a moldy or foul odor, then there is definitely a problem. Don't buy it!

Actually, when beginners choose a Phalaenopsis, there is no need to pursue"many flowers" or "rare varieties." Put health first. As long as the roots are good, the leaves are shiny, and the flowers are spirited, even if there are only one or two flowers, with good care afterward, it can rebloom every year. Remember these little tips, and next time you buy a Phalaenopsis, you will also be able to pick out the promising one at a glance.