Phalaenopsis Orchids - 6 Reasons Why the Moth Orchid Is Everyone's Favorite Orchid

Because orchids have a reputation for being not easy to grow, everyone always wants to know what the least difficult orchid for newbies is, and the answer is nearly always the same: phalaenopsis orchids.

This orchid species, also called the "moth orchids" for the dainty wing-like shape of their leaves, are popular with newbies (and veterans, too!) because of the relative ease with which they can be grown.

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

One Stem = Focused Care - While some orchids have multiple stems, each of which can have several flower spikes, the phalaenopsis orchid is monopodial. Which simply means that it always has just one main stem.

While beginners may want to go for the plant with the "most" blooms, the one stem on a moth orchid is not that difficult to take care of. This means it can still produce quite a few colorful flowers, all the 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 needs 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 environment that has at least a tiny bit of shade for a fraction of the day is ideal. (These plants also flourish well indoors for this very reason.)

Manageable Temperature Needs - The "no pressure" attitude the moth orchid has towards light also extends to its temperature requirements. Although some orchids 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 climates, and others thrive the best in drier places. Once more, the phalaenopsis orchid is great because it is tolerant of wider differences in humidity than most other orchids. As long as humidity is around 50%, you'll be okay. No matter where you live, this can easily be achieved with a regular humidifier.

Water and Walk Away - Unlike some orchids that demand constant attention to the level of hydration, phalaenopsis orchids are more flexible. This isn't to say that proper hydaration isn't important; the moth orchid needs a well-thought out balance of water as much as any other orchid.

The secret is that this specific species grows well with minimal care - you can usually water them about once a week and they'll do well.

Constant Blooming - The moth orchid has no pseudobulbs, which means that once the orchid goes into the blooming period, all its vigor is really directed towards the flowers.

With the right care, you can have this orchid in a condition of constant blooming for a long, nearly indefinite, period of time. Since re-blooming is one of the more difficult aspects of caring for these plants, this is a great reason to give phalaenopsis orchids a go.

From their resistance to newbies mistakes to their vibrant and fragrant flowers, phalaenopsis orchids are a favorite that you're certain to love.


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And to discover even more about phalaenopsis orchids, download my totally FREE "5 Biggest Orchid Care Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them!)" by going here: Orchid Care Tips.

Mary Ann Berdak is the publisher of www.OrchidCareZone.com - a top online destination for orchid care tips and advice.