Hi, new here and new to orchids

[soccerdefence]

I have been thinking about trying an orchid for a LONG time, as they are so beautiful, but never have because I was always afraid of killing them. Well I found one on clearence for $7! so i had to try it. It is a Phalaenopsis. I think (and very hope) that it is about to bloom, but maybe it has already bloomed and the "stick" has not died yet?

pictures.... one of the plant next to my new bromeliad


and one close up of the (thought to be) bud



I am looking forward to know all of you and to learning all I can about orchid (and other indoor house plant) care
BTW I love the fact that there is a place to buy orchids here as they are hard to find were I live!
also if anyone knows what species of Bromeliad I have... let me know

[soccerdefence]

I would also love to know if it is safe for me to replant it as it looks cramped in the tiny pot it came in, and what fertilizer would be best? I am very new to indoor plant keeping (other that aquatic plants...)
thanks again

[cb977]

Here's a care sheet for Phalaenopsis:

http://www.orchidboard.com/Phalaenop...ure-Care-Sheet

You can repot this one, go one size bigger in the pot

[soccerdefence]

thanks for the link

[soccerdefence]

just curious, about how long till it blooms (roughly) and should I fertilize it? I have read places that said not to fertilize when its flowering?

[dgenovese1]

Hi Soccerdefense,

Welcome to the OB. It appears that you have jumped right in with questions and photos. Great!

It looks to me that your phalaenopsis does have an old spike; however that spike looks like it is sending out new buds on the end (as seen in your close-up). I'm not sure how long it will take it to bloom, as each hybrid is a little different. As for fertilizing, I have not heard that you should not fertilize a phal while in bloom. Just follow the recommendations on the care sheet Suzanne gave you the link for and you should be fine.