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Baldan's
Kaleidoscope is a famous 'candy
striped' phalaenopsis orchid
that was bred in the United States.
It is very popular and easy to grow. With good care,
this orchid can
grow into a specimen plant with several spikes
and huge numbers of
flowers!
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Blooms and flower spikes Most spring bloomers are done, but a constant supply of
hybrids means that blooming phals are always available. However, it is in summer that Phal violacea
and many of its scented hybrids, flower! Many other species with starry shaped blooms, held on
shorter horizontal stems bloom now too.
If your plant is near finished blooming or only has a
few flowers left, we suggest you remove
the flower spike completely now so that the plant can put all its energy into producing new
growths(and flowering spikes!) in the fall.
If you plant is finished blooming, now would still be a good
time to repot it, if the mix is more than 12 months old. See our phalaenopsis repotting guide.
Changes in Day Length and
Temperature Days are warmer, longer and brighter. Be sure
to move your phals back from the windows a bit, to avoid sun burn on the leaves. Water enough
to keep your plants moist-do not let your phals dry out completely. Make sure your plants have
plenty of fresh air, and during hot humid days, air circulation day and night becomes very
important. Also be sure to water your phals early in the day so they are dry by nightfall.
Feeding your plants Increase feeding to two to
three as month always at half strength. A general orchid food is best as you want your
plant to grow as many leaves and roots as possible to ensure lots of flowers in the
fall.
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