Moth orchids, or Phalaenopsis, are tropical epiphytic plants that are native to forests throughout south-east Asia, where they thrive in warm, moist conditions. These beautiful plants will brighten your day, especially when they flower in winter.
Watch Alan Titchmarsh care for a phalaenopsis in our video guide to looking after orchids.
Phalenopsis are easy to care for – just take your lead from their natural environment by providing moisture in the air (for example by misting them, or keeping them in a humid room such as a kitchen or bathroom). Provide a temperature of 15-24°C, plus good air circulation. They prefer an east or west-facing window and protection from midday sun.
Repot every couple of years, keeping the plant at its existing level in the new pot, and support the flower stems with a cane.
Here are four simple steps to caring for a phalaenopsis.
You Will Need
- Moth orchid
- Secateurs
- Clear pot
- Bark mixture or specialist orchid compost
- Water
- Specialist orchid feed
Step 1
Cut just above a healthy joint on the flowering stem to encourage more blooms from a spike that has finished flowering. Reduce the temperature by 5°C for a few weeks to shock barren orchids into flower.
Step 2
Repot into a clear container – the roots benefit from light. Use a bark mixture or specialist orchid compost. Roots that are growing into the air don’t need burying.
Step 3
Water about once a week in summer and slightly less in winter. Use tepid water from a boiled kettle and soak from the bottom. Don’t let them stand in water, but never let them dry out completely.
Step 4
Feed every other week in the growing season and less in winter. Use a specialist orchid feed sprayed on the underside of the leaves and roots. This will help keep your plant in great condition.
