Lavender Splash Phalaenopsis Orchid Houseplant

The Lavender Splash Phalaenopsis Orchid is a captivating variety of the popular Phalaenopsis, or Moth Orchid. It is distinguished by its exquisite flowers, which display a beautiful blend of soft lavender hues, often with splashes of deeper lavender or purple and a contrasting center. The blooms are large, showy, and can last for several months. The plant's leaves are broad, glossy, and a deep green, forming an attractive rosette at the base.

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in an orchid-specific pot with good drainage, using a bark or orchid mix as the growing medium.
• - Ensure the pot allows for proper air circulation around the roots.

Soil Preparation:

• - Use a well-draining, coarse bark mix or a specially formulated orchid potting medium.
• - Avoid standard potting soil, which retains too much moisture for orchids.

Watering Specifics:

• - Water once a week, allowing the potting mix to dry slightly between waterings.
• - Avoid letting water sit in the crown of the plant, as this can cause rot.
• - Water early in the day to allow leaves to dry before nightfall.

Fertilizer Type:

• - Use a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks during active growth (spring to fall).
• - Reduce fertilizing to once a month during the winter dormancy period.

Pruning and Training:

• - After blooming, trim the flower spike just above a node to encourage reblooming.
• - Remove yellow or damaged leaves as needed to keep the plant healthy.

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch for common pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
• - Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations, if necessary.

Blooming Indicators:

• - Produces stunning lavender blooms with intricate splashes of color, typically lasting several months.
• - Blooms once or twice a year, often in late winter or early spring.

Light Requirements:

• - Prefers bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• - In low-light environments, supplemental grow lights can help maintain healthy blooms.

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Ideal temperature range is 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C).
• - Avoid exposure to cold drafts or temperatures below 60°F (15°C), as this can lead to poor growth and blooming.

Companion Plants for Lavender Splash Phalaenopsis Orchid:

• - Peperomia: Its small size and low maintenance make it a good pairing with orchids.
• - Ferns: Adds lush greenery and thrives in the same humid environment as orchids.
• - Sansevieria: Low-maintenance plant that complements orchids in mixed arrangements.
• - Begonia: Adds colorful foliage alongside your orchid blooms.