Orchid (Phalaenopsis) Care Guide
Phalaenopsis spp.
Quick Answer
Orchid (Phalaenopsis) needs watering every 1 week in summer and every 1–2 weeks in winter. It thrives in bright indirect and temperatures of 60–85°F. Difficulty: Moderate. ✅ Non-toxic to pets.
Difficulty
Moderate
Light
Bright indirect
Watering
Every 1 week
Humidity
Medium–High (50–70%)
Temperature
60–85°F
Growth Rate
Slow
Toxicity
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Watering
Summer
Every 1 week
Winter
Every 1–2 weeks
Method: Water in sink, allow to drain fully; never let sit in water
Light Requirements
Bright indirect
East or west window ideal; needs good light to rebloom.
Soil & Potting
Soil: Orchid bark mix; must be very well draining
Pot: Clear plastic nursery pot inside decorative pot
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature: 60–85°F (16–29°C)
Humidity: Medium–High (50–70%)
Fertilizing
Frequency: Every 2 weeks spring/summer; skip winter
Type: Orchid-specific fertilizer (20-20-20), quarter strength
Common Problems
No rebloom → Cut spike above node; reduce temp by 10°F at night for 2 weeks.
Yellow leaves → Overwatering or too much direct sun.
Wrinkled leaves → Underwatering or root rot.
Roots turning grey/white → Normal when dry. Green when watered.
Propagation
Keikis (offshoots), division
Seasonal Care Calendar
🌸 Spring
Resume fertilizing every 2 weeks. This is the best time to repot after blooming.
☀️ Summer
Maintain consistent watering. Protect from hot, direct sun which burns leaves.
🍂 Fall
Reduce fertilizing. The natural temperature drop at night encourages bloom spike formation.
❄️ Winter
Provide a 10°F nighttime temperature drop to trigger bloom spikes. Reduce watering slightly.