If you’re new to orchid growing or are looking for an easy, minimal care orchid then look no further—the Phalaenopsis, or Phal orchid, might just be your new best friend. These stunning flowers have become very popular in homes around the world because of their ease to care for, stunning blooms, varied colors, elegant look, and wonderful fragrance. Even if you are an expert orchid grower, it’s worth having a Phal orchid around to add a touch of grace to your home.

Phalaenopsis orchids are also referred to as moth orchids because of their similar shape to a moth when they are in full bloom. Phal’s come in pink, white, purple, yellow and many are wonderfully striped. These really are jaw-dropping flowers, which makes it no surprise that they are so commonly seen incorporated into wedding ceremonies these days.

Phalaenopsis are a genus of orchids. There are over 60 species in the genus and a plethora of hybrid variations. They are one of the most cultivated orchids on the planet with new hybrids being bred regularly. They are epiphytes, meaning they are found attached to trees, rocks or other plants, using their structure for mechanical support.

When growing a Phal orchid at home, it’s important to emulate this. One of the best ways to do this is to use a bamboo stick, placed in the center of the orchid pot, and attach the stem to the bamboo with some wire ties. This will support your orchid and also allow the blooms to be beautifully presented.

I also like to use clear plastic pots during the growing period because it allows sunlight to reach the root structure. Sun light is very important to all orchids, but the right amount and intensity is critical for your Phal. Phal’s are low-light orchids so it’s best to place them in an East or South-East facing window, pulled back a bit from the window so that they get bright morning sun, but the light will lack the intensity of the later parts of the day.

If you decide to use artificial lights then fluorescents are a great choice. Just place the light about a foot to a foot and a half above the orchid on an angle. Give them 12 hours, or so, of sunlight, or whatever mimics the natural daylight of that time of year.

Temperature is also very important for Phalaenopsis orchids. Aim for a daytime temperature of no more than 85 F and nighttime lows of around 65 F.

A critical component for all Phal’s is their water intake. This need is met through two mediums: physically watering the plant and humidity. If you have a humidifier, aim to keep the humidity around 70%, although some Phalaenopsis species will like it higher.

If you don’t have a humidifier you can buy a humidity tray that will meet this need.

A word of caution here: Do not over water your Phal orchids. This is the single biggest mistake in orchid care. Plan on watering once every 7 to 10 days. During the high growth season you can increase this to once every 5-7 days. I also like to fertilize about every other time that I water. This helps give your plant a boost of necessary nutrients.

Having a Phalaenopsis orchid around is really an eye-pleaser at home or at work. If you follow these few simple guidelines then you’ll be on your way to seeing your orchids bloom beautifully and easily.

-
About the Author:
Mark Alber is the owner of www.OrchidInformationHeadquarters.com. You can find more resources on Phal Orchids at his website.
Article Source

When we suffer from back pain, we dose up on pain killers and book an appointment with the chiropractor. We might even invest in ergonomically enhanced office furniture and computer equipment. What we tend to overlook is the mattress that we sleep on. A Visco foam mattress can have a massive impact on your discomfort and might even bring it to an end. It’s “memory” foam and could clear up your back pain in just a few weeks.

A Visco foam mattress works by conforming to the contours of your body. This gives you total support while you are asleep and not just to your back. All pressure points such as knees and hips receive support also. The foam itself reacts to your body heat. Where you come in contact with the mattress, the foam softens accordingly to give you support. Where you don’t touch it, it stays firm.

Compare this to a regular bed with a spring mattress. You lie down and in effect your body starts to sag. Places that really need support, like your lower back for example, don’t get any. A Visco foam mattress provides support exactly where it is needed and what’s more as you move around in your sleep, the foam adjusts with you.

There are a couple of factors to consider when shopping for a Visco foam mattress. After all, they aren’t cheap so you want to make sure you choose the right one for your requirements. Firstly the thickness of the foam and secondly the density. The higher the density, unfortunately the higher the price. What you are essentially paying for is more support and durability. Don’t be tempted by a cheap mattress topper, they don’t really work and go for a minimum of 3 pound density to get something long lasting that really works.

-
About the Author:
The Article is written by snugmattress.co.uk/ providing Visco Elastic Foam and Double Mattress Services. Visit http://www.snugmattress.co.uk/ for more information on snugmattress.co.uk/Products & Services___________________________Copyright information This article is free for reproduction but must be reproduced in its entirety, including live links & this copyright statement must be included. Visit snugmattress.co.uk/ for more services!
Article Source