Frustrated with Phals

[Whimgrinder]

They only need an unbroken string of nights that go to 55-60F or slightly below that, for at least two weeks to initiate a flower spike. But if the plant isn't in robust health, no amount of chill is going to prompt a bloom. May I suggest you post photos of the plant(s)?

[FrFrancis]

MSU has a low middle number, so you are not promoting flower growth with it. I would use a more balanced fertilizer (even though I have had good luck with MSU, I feel my flower yield is lower). I would also up the light.

[Orchid Whisperer]

You indicated that you may not be watering enough. First question, are the roots good, are there a lot of them? Sometimes dehydration comes from a lack of roots due to root loss.

You. May want to water more each time, but still allow a near dry down in between each watering. You can do this by soaking the roots for maybe a half hour each time you water (set pot in a larger container, fill with water up to the rim of the pot). Drain, and wait until nearly dry before the next watering.

[Syrinth]

I'll check the roots tonight, I think they're fine though.

I've decided to run some tests. At night, I'll close the blinds in the plant room to negate light from the street. One Phalaenopsies I'll put in the games room on the same floor, and the other I'll put into the basement. See if doing that for a few weeks triggers the blooms.

[silken]

Could you place it on a basement window sill? That might be cool enough and also provide some light in the day.

[Syrinth]

Nooope, sadly my basement windows face North

[silken]

Originally Posted by Syrinth

Nooope, sadly my basement windows face North

Most of my Phals sit in a north Window, but in a well lit room except for the 2 weeks they got their cool down in the fall. Then they were in a West window. They do not require high levels of light like Catts and most Dens etc. I am convinced the important thing is the cool down that initiates bloom. Don't forget, if they are under lights in the basement or wherever, that will add warmth to their environment which may prevent it from getting cool enough.

[wintergirl]

Originally Posted by Syrinth

Nooope, sadly my basement windows face North

All my phals are in a North window and I had to put a shear up as it was too much light. Phals do not need a lot of light. I would try it.