TheNaturePlanet

# 英文翻译
Phalaenopsis exudes elegance and grandeur when in bloom, yet many flower enthusiasts are unsure how to care for it after the flowers fade. In fact, by following these 4 key steps—pruning, light management, temperature control, and water-fertilizer care—you can not only protect healthy buds to encourage secondary blooming but also help the plant store sufficient nutrients for its next flowering period, resulting in more abundant blooms and richer colors!


## 1. Pruning Withered Flowers: Cut Based on the Pedicel's Condition
First, observe the pedicel's state before pruning; incorrect cutting will affect reblooming:
- If the pedicel is green and flexible: Only cut off the withered flowers and sepals, while retaining the healthy pedicel. The lateral buds on it may germinate later and produce a second round of blooms.
- If the pedicel turns yellow and soft: Cut it off at the base, leaving only a 2cm short stub. Immediately after cutting, spray the cut and potting soil with carbendazim to prevent rot from infecting the roots.


## 2. Light Management: Control Duration and Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
After flowering, the plant relies on photosynthesis to accumulate nutrients—focus on these two aspects of light care:
- Ensure 3-4 hours of scattered light daily. Place the orchid behind a window screen or in a bright area of the living room. Insufficient light will cause leaves to become thin and yellow, making it difficult for new leaves to grow.
- Absolutely avoid direct sunlight. Even autumn or winter sunlight needs to be filtered through glass or a screen; otherwise, the leaves are prone to sunburn, developing sunspots and dry tips.


## 3. Temperature Control: Focus on the Optimal Range of 18-28°C
Phalaenopsis is sensitive to temperature; unsuitable temperatures after flowering will hinder its growth:
- The ideal temperature range is 18-28°C. Within this range, the roots remain active, leaves grow rapidly, the plant can quickly recover from post-blooming wear and tear, and new leaf germination is promoted.
- When temperatures exceed 32°C in summer: Move the orchid to a cool place and open windows for ventilation to prevent the plant from entering a semi-dormant state due to high heat.
- When temperatures drop below 10°C in winter: Promptly move it to a warm, well-lit area indoors with scattered light to prevent frost damage.


## 4. Water and Fertilizer Management: Reduce Watering, Apply Diluted Fertilizer
The plant's water and fertilizer needs change after flowering, requiring scientific adjustments:
- **Watering**: Reduce the frequency. Water thoroughly only after the surface of the sphagnum moss is completely dry (approximately once every 1-2 weeks). Water in the morning on sunny days, and ensure the water temperature is close to room temperature to avoid stimulating the roots.
- **Fertilizing**: One week after the flowers fade, apply diluted orchid-specific liquid fertilizer every 1-2 weeks—follow the principle of "diluted fertilizer applied frequently". Once new leaves start to grow, appropriately increase the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to strengthen the roots and promote new shoot growth, building up reserves for the next flowering period.


The fading of Phalaenopsis flowers is not the end. With proper care following these 4 steps, it won’t be long before the plant produces new buds again and blooms in full, elegant glory!