Phalaenopsis Flask Deflasking: Acclimation, Potting, and Timeline to Bloom

Deflasking Protocol

1. Wait 1 week post-arrival for acclimation.
2. Ideal: wait until leaves/roots entangle (larger = better survival).
3. Wash in 20% Physan, dry on paper towel.
4. Size-sort; 10–15 per 10 cm pot, same size together.
5. Media in pot, center hole, plant, fill.

Critical Early Care

• Warm shade, constant moisture (not wet).
• Physan spray 1–2×/week optional.
• Heat mat low.
• Minimal fertilizer until rooted.
• Expect some losses—remove rotting promptly.

Bloom Timeline

2–3 years from flask to flower.

Resource

https://members.iinet.net.au/~barryg/Deflasking_orchids.htm