Julio Garden

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Because orchids are known for being not easy to care for, everyone always wants to know what the least difficult orchid for beginners is, and the answer is nearly always the same: phalaenopsis orchids.

This orchid species, also known as “moth orchids” for the delicate wing-like shape of their leaves, are popular with beginners (and veterans, too!) because of the relative ease with which they can be raised.

Whatever your skill level, here are six reasons why you should have a phalaenopsis orchid in your garden:

One Stem = Focused Care – While some other orchid types have multiple stems, each of which can contain a lot of flower spikes, the phalaenopsis orchid is monopodial. Which basically means that it always has just one main stem.

While beginners might wish to go for the plant with the “most” blooms, the one stem on a moth orchid is easier to care for. This means it can still grow several colorful blossoms, while providing it with a delicate yet robust appearance. And that, for many, is what the orchid is all about in the first place, right?

Manageable Sunlight – While some of these plants can have exact light requirements such as direct sunlight or even needing to be exposed to the moon, the phalaenopsis orchid is pretty easy-go-lucky as far as this goes.

Plentiful but indirect sunlight is key, so mostly any place that has at least a little shade for part of the day is ideal. (These orchids also do well indoors for this very reason.)

Manageable Temperature Needs – The “no pressure” attitude the moth orchid has towards light also carries over to its temperature requirements. While some plants can’t handle even slight variations in cold or heat, the phalaenopsis orchid does well in temperatures ranging from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (so room temperature is fine). It won’t be in much danger unless temperatures go outside of the 60-90 degrees F range.

Standard Humidity Needs – Some orchids thrive in humid weather, and others flourish best in drier places. Once more, the phalaenopsis orchid is fantastic because it is tolerant of greater variations in humidity than most other orchids. As long as humidity is around 50%, you’ll be fine. Never mind where you live, this can simply be achieved with a simple humidifier.

Water and Walk Away – Unlike some orchids that demand regular attention to the level of hydration, phalaenopsis orchids are more flexible. This isn’t to say that proper hydaration isn’t vital; the moth orchid requires a careful balance of water as much as any other orchid.

The key is that this specific species lives well with minimal care – you can normally water them about once per week and they’ll be fine.

Constant Blooming – The moth orchid does not have any pseudobulbs, which means that once the orchid goes into the blooming period, all its energy is really directed towards the blossoms.

With the proper care, you can keep this orchid in a state of constant blooming for a long, nearly indefinite, time frame. Since re-blooming is one of the more difficult aspects of growing orchids, this is an ideal reason to give phalaenopsis orchids a try.

From their resistance to beginner mistakes to their colorful and fragrant blooms, phalaenopsis orchids are a favorite that you’re certain to love.

Related articles

• Orchid Types – 10 Orchids That Growers Love (juliogarden.com)
• Care for Orchids – Orchid Care Before and After Blooming (realestatenoevalley.com)
• Growing Orchids – The Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Orchids Growing (bearathome.com)
• Orchid Care Instructions – A Proven Checklist for Mastering Orchid Care (juliogarden.com)
• Orchid Books – 3 Orchid Books All Orchids Growers Must Have (realestatenoevalley.com)
• Caring For Orchids – 5 Warning Signs Your Orchids Are In Trouble (bearathome.com)

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