Hi there! I’ve had this orchid for years and after the last spike died, I have not been able to get it to grow another one. Just repotted this one about 3 months ago. I have 3 other orchids that are thriving so I’m not sure what’s up with this one. Any tips?
First of all you seem like a successful orchid owner so well done, but I will just ask some general orchid based questions: 1. Does the plant have any drainage holes? 2. Is the orchid placed near air contact or a heater? 3. Do you follow planta's watering routine? 4. Do you have anything to increase the humidity for your orchids? 5. Do you use any plant food when watering? 6. Do you mist your orchid? 7. Are there any signs of root rot? 8. Are there any insects/infestation? 9. Is the temperature constantly changing? Sorry for all if the questions, but they can help trying to establish the problem and find the right advice. I hope that helps and I will try to help as best as I can when I have some more information.
0 Likes No worries I appreciate how thorough the questions are!! 1. Yes, the orchid is planted in a pot made particularly for orchids. So not only is there drainage on the bottom, but the pot also has holes throughout the sides to allow the roots to photosynthesize. Most of my other orchids have surface roots, and this one doesn’t so I’m wondering if that contributes? 2. For the heater/AC, the orchid isn’t directly next to them, but it is relatively close by. My heating/cooling unit is in the ceiling and the orchids about 6 inches to the left of it and probably about 9 feet below. 3. I am brand new planta, so I haven’t had a chance to follow their routine. What I have been doing. Is soaking the orchid pot in a water basin for 15 minutes every other week. 4. I do have a humidifier that I could use. 5. I have not used any plant food. 6. I currently do not mist the orchid. 7. No signs of root rot, but could be under the surface 8. No insects 9. The temperature is fluctuating a lot, I am in Colorado and the weather is all over the place. My apartment stays between 67-74
1 Like This orchid is also in sphagnum moss as the base, if that’s important as well. Thanks!!
0 Likes Ooh, I like the sound of the pot; I do not believe not having any surface roots will cause a problem, although do not quote me. I definitely recommend using the humidifier as orchids are native to the very humid tropical rainforest biome. I also created a humidity tray (you can google how to make them, but just get a small tray, fill with gravel, and water and place your orchid on top. However this may not be the most convenient in a pot, you can choose). I also use Orchid Myst and use it every two days, as well as using Baby Bio Orchid food putting in two-four drops in each watering I do. Moreover, it may be best to follow planta's watering schedule instead, but if the soaking works then you can continue. You seem like a very good orchid mother, but these are just what I do for my phalaenopsis orchid, Delilah. I hope that helps, feel free to ask any more questions.
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I think the low hanging fruit here is fertilizer since you don’t really use it. It may be this one is just naturally hungrier than the others. If budget is lean, get an all purpose balanced fertilizer. If you have more $$$ on hand, get something specifically made for orchids, preferably a MSU formula. It doesn’t matter if is organic or synthetic, just don’t exceed the manufacturer’s directions. I personally use fertilizer at 1/4 strength each time I water, and flush with pure water once a month to help with salt buildup. Try moving it to the same spot as the other phals that have rebloomed. If it is already in the same spot, up the light level gradually for the reluctant bloomer. If the edges of the leaves turn reddish you know you are at the max limit of sun for your plant. You can also try dropping the temp. Some phal species need a 10deg drop to stimulate blooming. While that trait has been bred out of most of the hybrids available today, yours might still have it. Sounds like you get a nice temp variation in your place already so perching it on a window sill might be enough to give it the push it needs. And then there are some phals that are jerks and won’t bloom. I am dealing with a Fuller’s Golden Princess that I rescued from the discount section of a box store. It has not bloomed for me in the four or so years I’ve had it. It’s growing happily on a same shelf with other phals that merrily bloom away. I’ve tinkered with media, fertilization, light levels and to the best of my ability temp to no avail. My rule is orchids have 3 years to bloom. If not, it is gifted to someone else who might be able to provide it with the care it needs. But for some reason I can’t get rid of the Princess.
4 Likes Thanks for all the ideas!
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I’m in the same boat as you are! Thanks for asking this question. My hubs gifted me with a beautiful orchid (not sure what kind) from a florist, and it hasn’t rebloomed in two years. I’ll give her one more year. Thank you to those who responded with advice.
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