How long does a newly arrived Phalaenopsis need to acclimatize? Correct care methods during the acclimatization period

In September and October, the temperature in the south is most suitable for growing Phalaenopsis orchids. Especially for beginners, orchids are most likely to adapt to a new environment after being brought home, and afterward, as long as they are cared for normally, they can be helped to bloom smoothly.

Generally speaking, after buying a Phalaenopsis and bringing it home at this time, with the ambient temperature within 15 to 28°C, as long as you keep the original pot of the Phalaenopsis undisturbed for 1 to 2 weeks, it can smoothly pass through the acclimatization period. However, there is one thing to note: before bringing the flower home, check whether its root system has turned black or rotted. If found, deal with the damaged roots first. After cutting them off, be sure to apply a fungicide (such as carbendazim) to prevent infection.

In terms of light and location, it is best to place it in a spot with bright, indirect light, such as a north windowsill, or 1 m away from an east or south window. It must absolutely not be placed in direct sunlight (especially a newly arrived Phalaenopsis, whose root system is quite sensitive). At the same time, do not keep moving its position during the acclimatization period, because if the environment keeps changing temperature and light, it will take longer to adapt.

As for watering, it is best to feel the substrate in the pot before each watering. If the sphagnum moss or bark is still damp, do not water yet; if it has already dried out, you can use the soaking method, which means putting the flowerpot directly into shallow water and soaking it for 10 minutes, then taking it out and draining the excess water (place it in a well-ventilated spot); if the substrate is especially dry, do not pour a lot of water all at once. Adopt the method of watering less but more often. Give it a little the day before to moisten it, then add a little more after two days, letting it recover slowly; otherwise, watering too quickly can easily cause root rot. In addition, when watering, never let water accumulate in the leaf center. Once water accumulates there, it can also easily cause crown rot. If you accidentally get water in there, quickly blot it dry with a paper towel.

Finally, in terms of temperature and humidity, the most suitable temperature for acclimatization is 18 to 28°C. Ambient temperatures below 15°C or above 30°C can easily make it sick. Air humidity is best kept at 50%-70%. If the air in an office or home is too dry, place a plate with water next to the flowerpot, or turn on a humidifier, but do not spray water directly onto the leaves. A Phalaenopsis in the acclimatization period is most afraid of water on its leaf surface.