How and What to Look for When Beginners Choose Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid) Seedlings

If you plan to grow a pot of "gorgeous" Phalaenopsis, you need to be extra careful when choosing the condition of the seedling, because if a plant already has problems starting from its root system, then no matter how impressive your growing skills are later on, it will still be very hard to grow it well.

At the flower market, what points should you check when choosing a Phalaenopsis seedling? First, squat down and look, flip over the underside of the leaves to see whether there are sesame-sized red spider mites, sticky aphids, or white insect eggs. These little things hide in the gaps between the leaf veins, and you will not find them without looking carefully. Then also rummage through the potting medium around the roots to see whether any tiny insects are crawling about, especially near the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot, so that insects hiding inside do not become hidden troubles for your later care.

Besides preventing insects, the health of the seedling also deserves close attention. Choose leaves that are thick and glossy; feel them with your hand to check whether they are soft. If the leaves are wrinkled, yellowing, or have spots, this most likely means the root system has problems, and it will be hard to keep alive after you buy it and take it home. Then also check whether the roots are white or light green. If the roots are black, sticky, or even fall off at a touch, do not buy it even if buying one gets you ten free. As for flower buds, try to choose ones with many buds arranged neatly, and the buds should look lively; do not choose flowers that are withered or blackened, as these are generally infected with pathogens and will not bloom.

In addition, when buying seedlings it is best to choose a local brick-and-mortar store so you can check them by hand yourself. If you buy online, try to choose a shop with a good reputation, and unpack and inspect the goods the moment you receive them. If there are insects, disease, or damage, ask for a refund immediately; do not think about growing it yourself and giving it a try, as doing so easily spreads pathogens and drags down your other plants at home.

After successfully settling your Phalaenopsis in, observe it more when watering day to day, and the order is also to first look at the upper surface of the leaves for small holes from chewing, missing corners, or strange secretions, then flip the leaves over, paying special attention to the underside of the tender leaves near the roots, as this is where insects love to stay most. Finally, if you find insects, even just one or two, do not wait; deal with them immediately. You can use a dedicated insecticide (remember to dilute it according to the ratio, and do not harm the flowers).