What Causes Bloom Drop in Phalaenopsis Orchids?
Posted by Just Add Ice Orchids... It's Just That Simple. on Wed, Apr 20, 2011
Just Add Ice Phalaenopsis Orchids are particularly hardy, but even the hardiest plant can run into trouble when environmental changes occur. Like all plants, moth orchids thrive when lighting, water and temperature conditions stay within a certain optimal range. These exotic tropical orchids flourish with plenty of indirect sunlight. Placing 3 ice cubes in your Just Add Ice Orchid pot once a week meets optimal watering needs. Temperature is the tricky element when growing Phalaenopsis Orchids. These orchids prefer slightly cooler nighttime temperatures at or above 60 degrees Fahrenheit and daytime temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees. Humidity should be between 50% and 80%; higher temperatures requiring greater humidity.
When a Just Add Ice Orchid starts to drop its blooms too soon or buds fall off before they are able to open, your plant may be stressed by growing conditions that are less than ideal. If your plant starts to drop its blooms, look for these problems:
- Temperature fluctuations are the most common cause of premature bloom or bud drop in Just Add Ice Orchids. Make certain your plant is not exposed to temperatures below 55 degrees F. Place a thermometer beside the pot and monitor the air temperature. Move your orchid to a warmer location that has a more consistent temperature, but one that still provides a differential between day and night temperatures.
- You orchid may be too dry. If blooms are looking droopy or petals look puckery, add an extra cube of ice to the pot.
- Your orchid may have become root-bound or roots may be waterlogged and dying. Repot your orchid, trimming off damaged roots.
- Always remove dead blooms to promote more robust growth.