While I wait out the next few weeks for better fall planting weather, I'm going to try something new - get my phalaenopsis Orchid to bloom.Mine was a gift when I was in the hospital, and though it has grown many new leaves, it has never put out another bloom. My plant is very happy right now, because we are close to its optimum, normal temps of high of 82º, low of 62º.
While I was at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens this weekend, I snagged an info sheet on how to grow this Southeast Asian native.
THE BASICS
Finding the proper light is essential - bright but no strong sun (indoors eastern facing window is best).
Potting mix should consist of fir bark, charcoal (natural charcoal - not and perlite. The pot should be no more than 1" wider than the roots on all sides. Watering when the mix dries slightly (th bark will lighten in color). The ABG recommends using a balanced,half-strength fertilizer every two weeks year-round.
Knowing when it forms buds (fall) tells me a lot. Here is what I am going to do to initiate flowering:
1) I want to induce temperatures that will promote flowering; - daytime below 78º. This is a challenge, as I do not keep my thermostat in this range and it is too warm outside. I will consider placing the pot in a cooler with ice at the bottom to create a mini micro-climate. First I will track the temperature in the cooler without the plant to see if this is feasible...
2) I am going to add a high-phosphorus fertilizer to enhance flowering. I know bone meal will add this, and it is organic as well.
I will report back with any progress. Let me know if you have tried this successfully in the past!
Lyn
