Orchid
Phalaenopsis
AKA: Moth Orchid
medium
low_to_medium water
medium, bright_indirect
Pet safe
Phalaenopsis orchids are the most common and beginner-friendly orchids. They prefer bright indirect light, excellent airflow around the roots, and careful watering.
Care snapshot
☀️ Light
Medium, Bright Indirect
💧 Water
Low To Medium
💨 Humidity
Medium To High
📈 Growth
Slow
Orchid Care at a Glance
Phalaenopsis orchids are elegant flowering plants that reward proper care with long-lasting blooms.
Best For
- Bright rooms
- Indoor flowering displays
- Pet-friendly homes
- Decor lovers
Not Great For
- Low light rooms
- Overwatering habits
- Heavy soils
Light Requirements
Bright indirect light is key to blooming. An east-facing window is often ideal.
How to Water Orchids
Water sparingly but thoroughly. Orchid roots should dry slightly between waterings and have access to air.
Watering Tips
- Clear pots help monitor root health.
- Water in the morning so roots dry by night.
- Never use ice cubes regularly—this can damage roots.
Humidity & Airflow
Orchids enjoy humidity but need airflow. Use pebble trays or humidifiers without trapping moisture around roots.
Reblooming Orchids
After flowers fade, cut the spike above a node or remove it entirely. A slight nighttime temperature drop encourages reblooming.
How to Propagate Orchids (Keiki)
- Identify a keiki (baby orchid) growing on the flower spike.
- Wait until it has at least 2–3 roots.
- Gently remove and pot into orchid bark.
- Keep warm and humid until established.
Orchid Problems (Fast Fix Guide)
No flowers
Cause: Low light or no temperature change
Fix: Increase light and allow cooler nights
Mushy roots
Cause: Overwatering
Fix: Trim rot and repot in fresh bark
Wrinkled leaves
Cause: Dehydration
Fix: Improve watering consistency and root health
Pet Safety
- Phalaenopsis orchids are non-toxic to cats and dogs.
- Still keep out of reach to avoid damage.
Usually every 7–10 days, depending on temperature and airflow.
Yes. Pots with drainage and airflow are essential.
Most often due to insufficient light or lack of temperature variation.
Yes. Most common orchids are non-toxic.
Video tips
Extra reading
FAQ
Usually every 7–10 days, depending on temperature and airflow.
Yes. Pots with drainage and airflow are essential.
Most often due to insufficient light or lack of temperature variation.
Yes. Most common orchids are non-toxic.
