Winter Care Tips for Phalaenopsis Orchids - Orchid Care for Beginners

During winter, ensure that Phalaenopsis orchids are not left in the cold and brought indoors to enjoy the same warmth as your living space. Make sure they receive adequate light, water them less frequently, avoid unnecessary repotting, and maintain a regular but reduced fertilization schedule. Also, be cautious of cold surfaces like windows, which may harm the orchid, and keep them away from direct heater airflow or hot surfaces.

Phalaenopsis orchids should not be kept in temperatures lower than 15 degrees Celsius. A slight cooldown to promote blooming should not go below 17 degrees Celsius, and after a flower spike is produced, it's safe to bring the orchid back to warmth.

No, you should not stop fertilizing your Phalaenopsis orchid in winter but reduce the frequency of fertilization since the orchid may not be growing as quickly as in the summer. The orchid is not dormant and continues producing spikes and sometimes roots, necessitating continued nutrition.

It is recommended to postpone repotting Phalaenopsis orchids until spring unless absolutely necessary. Repotting in winter can slow the orchid's adaptation due to decreased vegetative growth, so the best time is when you see new leaves forming or new roots starting to grow.

Be wary of cold surfaces like windows in winter, as Phalaenopsis orchid leaves are very sensitive to cold and can suffer damage and potential infection. Ensure leaves don't touch the window and that flower spikes don't grow against cold surfaces either.

In winter, it is essential to be mindful of environmental factors affecting your orchid. Water less frequently if necessary, ensure that the orchid receives adequate light even with shorter day lengths, and monitor for water pooling in the crown or between leaves to prevent rot.

Phalaenopsis orchids can suffer when exposed to low winter temperatures, so it is crucial to keep them in a warmer environment inside the house to prevent cold damage to the plant's tissue.