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Phalaenopsis
(fayl-eh-NOP-sis) Phalaenopsis or "Moth Orchids," and are considered among the easiest of the family to care for,
and are popular houseplants. The long-lasting sprays of flowers bloom for up to three months, and up to twice a year.
Temperature: The minimum temperature at night is 60-65 °F, while the average daytime temperature should be around 75-85 °F.
Light: Phalaenopsis need bright light, but not direct sunlight. An east window, west window, or shaded south window.
Water: Phalaenopsis should never get completely dry between waterings, but don't over-water. Watering once a week is normally enough.
Humidity: Phalaenopsis need moist air, with a humidity level of 60- 70%. To increase moisture, place your plant on a tray or dish of pebbles partially filled with water (so that the pot never sits directly in the water.) In dry weather, plants can be misted.
Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or 12-12-12) diluted to 1/4 to 1/2 strength, weekly. Don't over-fertilize.
Repotting: Phalaenopsis should be repotted every 1-2 years in late spring, using a well-drained but water retentive mix.
Dendrobium
(den-DROH-bee-um) Many varieties, with varying requirements. Denobrium phalaenopsis are the most popular of the denobrium orchids. General requirements: Temperature: Day temperatures of 80-90 °F, night temperatures of 60- 65 °F.
Light: Dendrobiums need bright light- east, west, or lightly shaded windows..
Water: Dendrobiums need to dry out between waterings. Humidity: Dendrobiums need 50- 60% humidity. To increase moisture, place your plant on a tray or dish of pebbles partially filled with water (so that the pot never sits directly in the water.) Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or 12-12-12) diluted to 1/4 to 1/2 strength, weekly. Don't over-fertilize.
Repot: Repot every 2-3 years.
Oncidium
on-SID-ee-um Many varieties with variety of requirements. General requirements: Temperature: 55-60 °F at night, 80-85 °F during the day.
Light: Bright light, east, west, or south windows.
Water: Water oncidium orchids thoroughly; let dry half-way before watering again.
Humidity: Oncidiums need 30- 60% humidity. To increase moisture, place your plant on a tray or dish of pebbles partially filled with water (so that the pot never sits directly in the water.)
Fertilizer: 20-20-20 formula, once or twice a month.
Repot: In the Spring.
Source of information: American Orchid Society
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