What should I do with my phalaenopsis?

Question

I have several different types of orchids that I have acquired over the last year. I have been doing my best to provide good orchid care, but I am not doing that great.

I have a phalaenopsis that I purchased with 3 stems coming from the base stem that is in bloom. The center stems buds bloomed all the way up to about 4 inches from the end of the sprig and then the rest did not grow. The two other stems have not bloomed at all. I do see at the end of each stem there is a healthy tip. So, the question is, what do I do now? The middle stems blooms are now falling after about 6 weeks and I have yet to get another bloom to grow.

I have the orchid sitting about 5 feet in from the south window. I have had to put in a window a/c unit to keep the room cool. I can not run the until all night and since I live in Fresno it does tend to get a bit warm in the evening. It is a safe assumption to say it is cooler in the day and warmer in the evening. Is this a problem?

Answer 1

Orchids must be kept at an even temperature at all times, so that could be the problem.  Go to your local library and  take out a book on orchids and study it well.  These are beautiful and delicate plants but they require extra special care.  The lighting can also be a problem.

Hope this helps.