Live Phalaenopsis orchid, also known as moth orchid, in a 6-inch decorative pot with assorted colors. These elegant tropical orchids are mass-produced hybrids that are easy to grow and flower under most home conditions. Phalaenopsis orchids naturally grow on tree trunks in warm tropical regions, sending out aerial roots along their stems which commonly sprawl outside the container.

Orchids thrive in bright, indirect light from east or west-facing windows and prefer normal room temperatures. They require weekly watering by drenching the bark medium thoroughly and allowing it to drain completely. Aerial roots will turn from silver-white to pale green when properly watered. Flower stalks grow from leaf joints and produce multiple buds that can last for a month or longer with proper care. Flower spikes can be quite tall and may form flowering branches off the main spike, extending the blooming period.

Plants benefit from light fertilization every third or fourth watering during active growth, using commercial orchid fertilizer. Cooler night temperatures in fall (into the fifties) can encourage bud formation. The potting bark medium should be replaced every 1-2 years before it breaks down. Plants typically come in 6-inch azalea pots with coarse-grade bark mix containing perlite and horticultural charcoal. Under proper care, orchids can rebloom by pruning yellowed spikes back to about half an inch above the second node above the foliage.