Phalaenopsis is one of the easiest orchids to grow, and the blooms can last for many months. They are an excellent choice for a beginner orchid parent. Phalaenopsis orchids’ biggest threat is the risk of rot. Be sure to keep the crown of the plants dry, especially at night. Also, groom your plants constantly, remove all old leaves and flowers, and check for bugs. These orchids are an advantageous plant for the beginner due to their easy culture.
Phalaenopsis orchids don’t need a great amount of light. They really prefer a more shaded condition. Always filtered light – NEVER direct sunlight. If too much light is provided, leaves will turn reddish or yellow-green. A medium green color indicates a good light level.
Keep phalaenopsis orchids slightly damp at all times. These plants have no way to store water and therefore should not be allowed to dry out. It is important to water with tepid water and only in the morning, so the leaves have a chance to dry out before night. If water is left in the leaves’ crown, a rot may develop, so dry the crown before nightfall.
Phalaenopsis orchids should be around 70% to obtain the best growth. This can be provided by grouping plants together or to fill a tray with gravel and keep a layer of water in the bottom of the tray, making sure the bottom of the orchid pots do not come in contact with the water.
Phalaenopsis orchids like warmth and prefer night temperatures above 60 degrees. 85 degrees during the day is ideal. To help initiate flowers, a period of lower night temps around 55-60 works best.
During growth periods, a 30-10-10 formulation should be used if growing in the bark and a balanced formulation if other media is used. Do not feed during the winter months.
Repot your phalaenopsis orchids about once a year as it seems to like being repotted, and it seems to encourage new growth. Many times the oldest leaf will die after repotting. It is a common occurrence. Most phalaenopsis will only have 3-5 leaves on the plant at one time. Making sure the air movement is essential to growing all orchids. Remember that they live in the tops of trees. This also helps the flowers to last for a longer period of time in pristine condition.
Hydrangeas do well in partially shaded areas like under a large tree or on the side of a house. They like to receive sun in the morning, and the partial shade is in the heat of the afternoon. In Colorado, too much full sun will cause them to get sunburned.
Hydrangea shrubs need to have well-draining soils that is rich in organic matter. Most Colorado soils will benefit from the addition of peat moss and compost that helps retain moisture. The pH determines the colors of the blooms. Acidic soil will give you blue flowers, and alkaline soil gives you pink flowers. Â
If hydrangea shrubs are given too much high-nitrogen fertilizer, they may grow full and lush, but there will be fewer flowers. If the soil is rich, fertilizer is not needed. Otherwise, a light application in March or April may be warranted.
Make sure to water your hydrangea shrubs regularly. Those big blooms require a lot of water to stay lush and full. About one inch of water throughout the week is ideal. If they receive more sun give them at least two inches during the hotter summer days.
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