newbie phal leaf question,,,,don't laugh

[phal-newbie]

I have many phal noids on my windowsills that I am trying to get to rebloom. They are cramped for space as I am trying to get them all near the light in E. and W. windows. The leaves on each plant touch the leaves and plastic pot on the other plants. Is this harmful to the orchid ?
I need more space or less orchids. Are my leaves being hurt by this contact with the other plants ? Thanks..

[CTB]

It is best to have room between orchids that a cat could walk through, but the touch part is not hurting. It is the lack of air circulation, and spread of disease, How about setting up some artificial light? Welcome to the board.

[tucker85]

The fact that they're actually touching each other isn't a problem in itself as far as I know. But orchids require good air circulation around the leaves and even the roots. If they're that close together they may not get enough air circulation which would make them more prone to fungus and bacteria problems. Some growers use a fan to provide air circulation. If you don't use a fan it would probably be a good idea to keep them further apart. Good luck.

[BobInBonita]

I probably worry less than most, and as long as they're healthy, I wouldn't worry if the leaves touch or overlap a bit - especially if they're in good media. If you have ANY signs of disease, then I'd move that plant out before it spreads, and maybe treat the other plants. The airflow dries things out faster, which keeps down mold, but if you recognize that things are drying slower you can reduce your watering and achieve similar results. One of the things people frequently recommend in low humidity environments is grouping plants closer. It comes down to a choice sometimes - in your case do you want fewer plants, a bigger house, or a little more risk? I'd take the risk, and just be careful, but that's me and it's your choice. Best of luck and let us know either way.

[phal-newbie]

Thanks to Bob, Tucker, and Carol.....
Great answers.... I have lots to think about. I am trying to avoid a fan or extra lights. I have a nearby window open almost all the time and I think it is giving me good air circulation. I am glad to hear the leaves in contact with other leaves is no great problem.
THANKS again,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

[RosieC]

Mine are pretty crambed in on the windowledges.

I've heard some say it can help humidity, others that it leads to lack of air circulation, both are probably true. I've never noticed that the air circulation is insufficient though, however the room where they are most packed in is also the most used room in the house so the constant movement of people will keep the air movement.

As Bob said, any sign of disease and a plant should be removed from the others. Plants close together can easily spread disease between them.