Phalaenopsis Tropic Ocelot

Description

🌿 Care Guide

💡 Light

• Indirect, bright light is ideal (east or west-facing windows).

• Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

• If leaves are dark green, it may need more light; medium green with slight yellow hue is perfect.

🌡️ Temperature

• Day: 70–85°F (21–29°C)

• Night: 60–65°F (16–18°C)

• Avoid sudden temperature drops and cold drafts.

💧 Watering

• Water once a week, allowing roots to dry slightly between waterings.

• Use room-temperature water, ideally rainwater or distilled.

• Avoid letting water sit in the crown of the plant (to prevent crown rot).

💨 Humidity

• Likes moderate humidity (50–70%).

• Use a humidity tray, group with other plants, or use a humidifier if needed.

🌱 Potting & Medium

• Use a well-draining orchid mix (bark, sphagnum moss, or perlite blend).

• Repot every 1–2 years or when the medium breaks down.

• Clear pots are helpful to monitor root health and moisture.

🌸 Fertilizing

• Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20 or similar) every 2–4 weeks.

• Dilute to ¼–½ strength to avoid salt buildup.

• Reduce feeding during winter months.

🧤 Handling Tips

• Be gentle with spikes: New flower spikes are delicate—support with stakes if needed.

• Don’t cut spikes too early: After blooming, you can cut the spike above a node to encourage a secondary bloom.

• Watch for pests: Mealybugs, scale, and aphids are common—treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.

• Clean tools: Always sterilize scissors before cutting to prevent disease spread.

• Avoid overwatering: Most common killer of Phalaenopsis orchids.