Pressing Orchid Flowers for Bookmarks and Encouraging Rebloom

Pressing Flowers Successfully

A first-time orchid owner wants to press fully opened blooms from a Valentine's Day Phalaenopsis into bookmarks. The method: place the flower between two sheets of white paper, top with a heavy flat weight (like a large book), and leave for several weeks. Note that petals may become brittle; professional lamination between plastic sheets at a copy center yields more durable bookmarks and allows adding text.

Reblooming Your Phalaenopsis

After the last bud opens, the spike can be cut to encourage rebloom next year. Provide:

• Bright shade (no direct hot sun)
• 60–85°F (15–29°C)
• Humidity >50%
• Light air movement
• Water when mix is barely moist
• Balanced orchid fertilizer at quarter strength weekly

Phalaenopsis are among the easiest orchids to rebloom with consistent care.