In recent years, moth orchids (Phalaenopsis) have become so popular that you can find them in almost every flower shop. The reason is that they come in a variety of colors, and the flowers range from large to small. The larger ones can be placed on balconies, while the smaller ones are perfect for offices — suiting all kinds of tastes.
Along the way in plant care, many plant enthusiasts have messaged me: “I’m afraid of spending a lot of money only to enjoy the flowers once. Can you teach me how to get them to bloom again after the flowers fade? Is it difficult for beginners to make orchids rebloom?” First, let me clarify something about Phalaenopsis orchids: don’t assume they are just a “one-time decoration” because of their gorgeous flowers. In fact, if cared for properly, they can live for more than ten years, and at the very least for five.
As for whether it’s difficult for beginners to make them rebloom — actually, it’s not that hard. The key to reblooming is exposure to lower temperatures. It may sound mysterious, but simply put, you need to give the plant a difference between day and night temperatures. The ideal daytime temperature is in the low 20s °C (around 20–25 °C), warm and comfortable, while at night it’s best if it can drop to about 16 °C, a bit cooler. This contrast between warm days and cooler nights helps stimulate the orchid’s flower spikes to emerge, encouraging it to bloom again. The best seasons for this kind of temperature difference are spring and autumn — the time when we wear a light jacket during the day and need a small blanket at night. That’s why during these seasons, you’ll see the most Phalaenopsis orchids producing flower spikes in flower markets.
Of course, whether it reblooms also depends on the plant itself — both the variety you purchased and its overall health. Some varieties are naturally eager bloomers and can flower twice a year, while others are more “laid-back” and need more time. A strong, healthy orchid with lush green leaves will definitely rebloom more easily than a weak one.
Finally, during the reblooming phase, proper water and fertilizer management are still essential, since no plant can thrive without nutrients. It’s recommended to use fertilizer specifically for Phalaenopsis orchids, but be careful not to overwater or over-fertilize, otherwise the roots may rot, or excess nutrients may prevent the buds from developing properly.
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