Phalaenopsis Fertilizer, Potting Mix, and Humidity for Canadian Growers

Fertilizer: Not Cactus Food

Schultz 2-7-7 (low N, high P/K) = bloom booster, not for growth. Phalaenopsis need balanced fertilizer (20-20-20, 7-7-7) at ¼ tsp/gal weekly. Alternate 1-2 others for micronutrients.

Potting Mix: NOT Soil

Dad used soil = root rot cause. You need orchid bark mix (fir bark, perlite, charcoal, coconut fiber, etc.). Soak before use. Plastic pot with holes. Repot annually.

Root Health Check at Repot

• Firm, plump, green-tipped = healthy.
• Mushy, stringy, hollow = dead — trim off.
• Velamen (silvery sheath) should be intact.

Humidity in Dry Canadian Winters

Humidity tray: shallow pan + pea gravel + water to just below gravel top. Pot sits ON gravel, NOT in water. Evaporation raises local humidity. Room humidifier also works.

Complete Reset Plan

1. Buy orchid bark mix + balanced fertilizer.
2. Repot: remove soil, trim dead roots, pot in bark.
3. East window, morning water/feed weekly.
4. Humidity tray running constantly.