Why Are My New Phalaenopsis Flowers Wilting So Soon?

Question:

I just received my first orchid—a Phalaenopsis. It was beautiful, but now the petals are softening and falling off, all except one. I ordered fertilizer but it hasn't arrived yet. I live in Maryland; it's spring but very rainy this year. Is there anything I can do to keep the petals longer?

Answer:

Hello Shirelle,

Phalaenopsis flowers typically last several months or longer. Premature wilting suggests an environmental issue. Check for these common culprits:

• Ripening fruit nearby—ethylene gas can kill orchid flowers.
• Freshly painted walls—paint fumes are also deadly to blooms.
• Night temperatures below 60°F—Phals prefer warmer nights.
• Sudden temperature changes exceeding 15°F—can shock flowers into early death.

Hope one of these helps identify the problem.

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, CA