Scented Phalaenopsis Orchid | Aroma Spring

About Your Phalaenopsis Aroma Spring

Congratulations — you are now the proud owner of a Phalaenopsis orchid called Aroma Spring! This elegant orchid is a rare treat among moth orchids — not only does it bear clusters of delicate blooms, but it is also delightfully scented, filling your home with a gentle, sweet fragrance. A beautifully compact variety, Aroma Spring is perfectly suited to windowsills, shelves, and smaller spaces — and with the right care, it will reward you with long-lasting flowers and, in time, a second flush of blooms.

When Your Plant First Arrives

Your orchid has been carefully packaged for its journey, but give it a little time to settle before making any changes. Follow these simple first steps:

  • Unpack gently — remove all packaging and check the plant over. A little wilting or a dropped bud or two is perfectly normal after transit and nothing to worry about.
  • Find a bright spot — place it in a warm position with bright, indirect light. An east- or west-facing windowsill is ideal. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.
  • Check the roots — healthy Phalaenopsis roots are silvery-green and it is perfectly normal to see some of these roots coming out of the compost. These are aerial roots and, in nature, would attach themselves to trees in the rainforest. If they look plump and green, the plant has enough moisture for now. If they look very silvery and shrivelled, give it a gentle water. These aerial roots absorb moisture and carbon dioxide from the air so do not be tempted to cover them with additional compost.
  • Let it settle — avoid repotting or moving it for the first couple of weeks. Give it time to adjust to its new home.

Watering

Orchids are far more tolerant of being too dry than too wet — overwatering is the most common cause of orchid decline. Water your Aroma Spring approximately once a week in summer and every 10–14 days in winter, but always check before you water. The best method is to lift the pot: if it feels light, it's time to water. If it still feels heavy, leave it a little longer.

When you do water, take the inner pot to the sink and water thoroughly, allowing excess to drain freely before returning it to its decorative pot. Never let the roots sit in standing water, as this leads to root rot. Avoid getting water into the crown of the plant.

Light

Phalaenopsis orchids love bright, indirect light. An east- or west-facing windowsill is ideal — enough light to encourage flowering, without the risk of leaf scorch from harsh direct sun. If the leaves are dark green and the plant is reluctant to rebloom, it may need a little more light. If the leaves look yellowish or bleached, move it slightly further from the window.

Temperature & Humidity

Your orchid is happiest in a consistent temperature between 18–25°C during the day, with a slight drop at night. Avoid placing it near radiators, cold draughts, or air conditioning units — sudden temperature fluctuations can cause bud drop. As a tropical plant, it appreciates a little humidity. Grouping it with other plants will help.

Tip for reblooming: a drop in night-time temperature to around 16°C for 4–6 weeks in autumn can encourage your orchid to produce a new flower spike.

Feeding

You can feed your orchid with a specialist orchid fertiliser (look for a balanced or "bloom booster" formula) every two to four weeks during spring and summer. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter when growth naturally slows. Always water before feeding to avoid applying fertiliser to dry roots, and never exceed the recommended dose.

After Flowering

Once the flowers have finished, don't be tempted to cut the spike right back straight away. Check for nodes (small bumps) along the stem — if the spike is still green and healthy, cutting just above a node can encourage a secondary flush of blooms. If the spike turns yellow or brown, cut it back to the base and allow the plant to rest and build energy for its next flowering cycle.

Repotting

Phalaenopsis orchids generally need repotting every one to two years, or when the roots are visibly escaping the pot or the bark compost has broken down. Use a specialist orchid bark mix and a clear pot (orchid roots photosynthesise and appreciate the light). Spring, after flowering, is the best time to repot.

Need More Help?

If you have any questions about caring for your Phalaenopsis Aroma Spring, we're always happy to help — just get in touch at info@rootedbycatherinegray.co.uk

*written with the help of AI