Top 5 tips to grow your Polychilos Phalaenopsis
Polychilos are tropical Phalaenopsis, very different from your everyday moth orchid. They’re part of a unique breeding line, and when purchased from a registered nursery, their genetic lineage can be traced. If you’re unsure whether you have one, look for their telltale traits: a short stem, 2–3 blooms, and a star-shaped flower known as the ‘Summer Star’ Phalaenopsis—true to its name, it blossoms in the summer!
5 Tips to Help Your Polychilos Thrive & Flower (Even in Winter!)
1. Keep Them Warm 🌡️ (Most Important)
Polychilos thrive in consistently warm conditions (22–33°C / 72–86°F). Unlike standard Phals, they don’t like or need cool nights. Although, a 2-3°C difference between day and night is always recommended to mimic natural cycles. They will flower above 22°C, but their lower limit is around 18°C before issues will start to arise.
Keep temperatures stable year-round to encourage spike growth—the warmer, the better! A good trick is to use a greenhouse cabinet.
2. Maintain Good Humidity 💧
As tropical plants, they love humidity around 40–60%. Use a humidity tray, group plants together, and run a humidifier. However, good air circulation is crucial to prevent rot and other issues such as fungal.
3. Give Bright, Filtered Light ☀️
They require light similar to a standard Phalaenopsis—ideally 12–14 hours for best growth, though 6–8 hours is still sufficient. Place them near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains, or under quality grow lights for best results.
For supplementary lights, extend the light period so the duration is up to 12-14 hours.
4. Fertilize Regularly 🍃
Feed lightly but consistently with a balanced orchid fertilizer during active growth (look for new leaves emerging). Adjust based on light conditions—reduce fertilizer drastically if you don’t use supplemental lighting during Canada’s darker winter months. Use our recommended fertilizer here
5. Be Patient & Don’t Cut the Spike 🌸
Polychilos are sequential bloomers. They usually carry 1–2 flowers at a time but can bloom continuously for months—or even years. Don’t cut the spike unless it’s completely dried out, as new buds and branches may keep forming.
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Care Guides: Phragmipedium
Meet the stunning Phragmipedium – the New World's answer to slipper orchids. These captivating plants stretch across Mexico, Central and South America, earning their "slipper" nickname from the distinctive pouched lip that gives each flower its signature look.
What Makes Phragmipediums Special?
Care Guides: Phalaenopsis subsection Phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis orchids, also known as moth orchids, are one of the most popular orchid varieties due to their beautiful flowers and ease of care. With the right conditions and attention to detail, you can enjoy these stunning plants for years to come.
Important: Before reading this guide, ensure your orchid is a Phalaenopsis subsection Phalaenopsis and NOT Phalaenopsis subsection polychilos orchid as they have different cultural requirements.
Top 5 tips to grow your Polychilos Phalaenopsis
Polychilos are tropical Phalaenopsis, very different from your everyday moth orchid. They’re part of a unique breeding line, and when purchased from a registered nursery, their genetic lineage can be traced. If you’re unsure whether you have one, look for their telltale traits: a short stem, 2–3 blooms, and a star-shaped flower known as the ‘Summer Star’ Phalaenopsis—true to its name, it blossoms in the summer!