Phalaenopsis Orchid Care: How to Make It Bloom Again

The moth orchid (Phalaenopsis) is the best-selling orchid in the world and, despite its reputation, one of the easiest once you realize it's not a normal plant: its roots live in the air on trees, not buried in soil. With that in mind, it blooms for months and reblooms year after year.

Why its pot is clear

Its roots are photosynthetic and need air. That's why they sit in bark (not soil) in a transparent pot: they get some light and you can see their condition.

• Green/silvery, firm roots = healthy.
• Brown, mushy roots = overwatering.

Watering: the mistake that kills orchids

90% of orchids die drowned. Don't water it "a little every day." Do it right:

1. Every 7-10 days, soak the pot (with the plant) in water for 10-15 minutes.
2. Drain completely: never leave water at the bottom or in the crown.
3. Water again when the roots are silvery and the bark is dry.

Never leave the pot in a saucer of water.

Light

Bright indirect light, near a window without direct sun (which scorches its leaves). If the leaves are reddish, it's too much light; if dark green and not blooming, too little.

When the flowers fall

Don't throw it out! That's its normal cycle. You have two options with the flower spike:

• If the spike is still green, cut it an inch above a lower node: it may push out a new spike.
• If the spike is brown and dry, cut it at the base.

How to get it to rebloom

Phalaenopsis blooms after a nighttime temperature drop: in fall-winter, a few weeks with ~60-65 °F nights often trigger a new spike. An orchid-specific fertilizer at half strength helps.

Common problems

• Wrinkled/soft leaves: a root problem (almost always overwatering). Lift the plant and check them.
• Aerial roots outside the pot: totally normal! Don't bury them.
• Spots on leaves: direct sun or water trapped in the crown.

Soak-water it, give it good light and patience, and your orchid will reward you with spectacular blooms. Unsure how it looks? Upload a photo to the AI diagnosis.