Product Details
＋Phalaenopsis 'Viola' is a captivating orchid hybrid known for its elegant and charming flowers. Here's a detailed description:
Flowers: The flowers are medium to large, with a soft and delicate appearance. They typically feature shades of violet, lavender, and white, often with intricate patterns or spots that add to their beauty. The lip (labellum) of the flower is usually more vibrant, with contrasting colours that make it stand out.
Leaves: The leaves are broad, smooth, and dark green, forming a symmetrical rosette. They are generally 20-30 cm long and 8-10 cm wide, providing a lush and supportive base for the flower spikes.
Stems: The flower spikes are slender and can reach up to 50 cm in height. They arch gracefully, bearing multiple blooms that open sequentially, ensuring a prolonged flowering period.
Roots: The roots are thick, white, and covered with velamen, which helps in moisture absorption and gas exchange. They often extend out of the pot, seeking humidity and air.
Care Guide for Phalaenopsis 'Viola'
Light
- Bright, Indirect Light: Phalaenopsis orchids prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. An east or west-facing window with filtered light is ideal.
Temperature
- Daytime: 20-24°C (68-75°F)
- Nighttime: 16-20°C (60-68°F)
- Avoid Drafts: Keep the plant away from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Watering
- Moderate Watering: Water once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering in the dormant season (autumn and winter).
- Method: Water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes, ensuring the roots are well-moistened. Allow the potting medium to dry out slightly between waterings.
Humidity
- High Humidity: Maintain humidity levels around 50-70%. Use a humidity tray or a room humidifier if necessary, especially in dry environments.
Potting Medium
- Well-Draining Medium: Use a mix of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss. This ensures good drainage while retaining some moisture.
Fertilising
- Balanced Orchid Fertiliser: Feed with a balanced orchid fertiliser (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding during the dormant season.
Repotting
- Every 1-2 Years: Repot every 1-2 years, preferably after blooming. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excessive moisture retention.
Pruning
- After Blooming: Trim spent flower spikes to the base or to a node above where the first flower bloomed to encourage reblooming.
Pests and Diseases
- Common Pests: Watch out for mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Fungal and Bacterial Infections: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and leaf spot diseases.
Blooming
- Encouraging Blooms: To encourage reblooming, ensure the plant experiences a slight drop in temperature at night during autumn and winter.
By following these care guidelines, your Phalaenopsis 'Viola' should thrive and delight you with its enchanting blooms.
