Last Updated on March 6, 2022 by Guillermina
Thinking of growing moth orchids indoors? Learn what it takes to make your indoor plant thrive.
If you are looking for year-round flowers, consider Moth orchids because they might delight you. Their elegant flowers will brighten and level up every room and window sill on which they are placed.
Don’t be fooled by their exotic appearance, because they are really not difficult to maintain. Stay with us and find out everything you need to start growing moth orchids indoors.
Moth Orchids & Cultural Information
Moth orchid (Genus Phalaenopsis) belongs to the genus of about 60 species of orchids from the family Orchidaceae. This beautiful flower originates from Southeast Asia and parts of Australia.
They are grown mainly for commercial purposes and are crossed to produce hybrids with beautifully white, purple, and pink flowers. Also, they are very easy to grow and in addition are popular houseplants.
In terms of physical appearance, this species of orchid has a short stem that bears several broad leathery leaves. It also belongs to the epiphytic group, meaning it has thick roots and doesn’t require soil to survive. This is why you can usually buy them loosely rooted in pots filled with wood chips.
The flower spike arises from the base of the plant; a moth orchid usually has several long-lasting flowers. These elegant flowers consist of two lateral petals, a central modified petal, a column containing reproductive structures, and finally three petal-like sepals. The flowers are arranged on arching branches and open successively.
Did you know that a single multi-branching flower spike can have more than 20 flowers? One individual flower can last for weeks. The best thing about the moth orchid is that it is particularly good for beginners.
Continue reading to learn more about the process of growing moth orchids indoors.
Conditions Required For Successful Growing Moth Orchids Indoors
Orchid moth flowers can be grown very successfully indoors. The most important thing is to find a balance between humidity, temperature, light, and airflow.
Natural & Artificial Light
This part can be quite inconvenient, namely moth orchids need a lot of light, but they can’t experience absolutely any direct sunlight or the leaves will burn. Also, try to rotate it so that all its growth is not directed to one side only.
Your orchid moth can survive on the east window or on a window with shaded south or west exposure. The most important thing is not to expose it to direct sunlight.
On days when there is a lack of sun, you can use supplemental growing light which you will position about 1 foot from the plant. How to recognize that you take good care of your plant? Simply – the plant will have darker green leaves at the top, and red or dark red lines on the undersides.
Temperature & Humidity
Moth orchids are considered warm houseplants because during the period of active growth they require a temperature between about 75 – 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The good thing is that they can also adapt to a normal house temperature (65 – 70 degrees Fahrenheit). Keep in mind, the higher the temperature – the more humidity your plant will need.
In addition, this type of flower likes a nice contrast between night and day temperatures. Without it, the plants will not bloom well.
Watering
Being a monopodial plant, the orchid moth grows from a single stem. Therefore, there are no large pseudobulbs in which it can store excess water. Accordingly, this orchid of the genus Phalaenopsis has less drought tolerance.
During the growing season, water your plant once a week, preferably in the morning. On the other hand, during the flowering season, you can water it once every two weeks.
Air Circulation
Like all other species of orchids, this one also needs turbulent airflow to prevent root rot, fungus, and many other diseases. You can even use a ceiling or stationary fan to make sure your plant is getting enough airflow.
Fertilization
As for fertilization when growing moth orchids indoors, it is recommended to fertilize it with a weak orchid fertilizer weekly during the growing season. Then, during the flowering season, feel free to reduce fertilization to once a month. You can also use a blooming fertilizer in September or October to provoke a flower spike.
Pruning
Your orchids need to be pruned after the blooms have faded, that is, during the dormant period. You will usually do this once a year.
As for the procedure, cut the dead spikes (1/2 inch above a node) and carefully deadhead the plant, removing all faded flowers.
In Conclusion
Growing moth orchids indoors was once an elite and more than a costly hobby. However, today, due to increasingly advanced production, this hobby has become affordable for all other gardeners as well.
Have you ever tried to impress your loved ones with these showy, long-lasting blossoms? Let us know in the section below.
You may also be interested in Fun Facts And Best Tips For Growing Lavender Indoors In Winter
FAQs
How Do You Look After Moth Orchids Indoors?
As for caring for moth orchids, it is not difficult and does not require too much time. If you want them to grow healthily and bloom successfully, keep them warm, provide them with plenty of light, water regularly, and re-pot every couple of years. Finally, if you are in the mood, you can occasionally wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust.
Are Moth Orchids Easy To Grow?
Although you might think otherwise, moth orchids are among the easiest orchids to grow indoors.
Where Should I Put Moth Orchids?
Moth orchids prefer to be placed near an east or north-facing window. They also like a humid atmosphere, so it would be best to place them in a room like a kitchen or a bathroom.
How Long Do Moth Orchids Live?
Many people shed their moth orchids right after they have completed their flowering cycle. However, they live much longer than just one season. They usually last for about 15-20 years, after which they naturally become weaker, producing fewer flowers. Also, there have been reports that some orchids live more than 100 years.