Phalaenopsis Outside?
 

I have three phals, all of which are blooming right now. My question is whether I should put them outside during the day when they are finished blooming. I live in South Louisiana-- hot and humid. In the spring, the weather is in the high 70's or 80's. I have a little patio that has partial shade from trees and think it might be good to put the 'chids out there during the day. If they are doing well in their respective windows, should I just let them be, or should I move them out during the day and in at night to give them the temperature change that might induce spiking?

Second question: I just ordered and am awaiting the arrival of a couple of phalaenopsis seedlings that will be getting to blooming size soon. I built a mini shade house out of a plastic bin and 75% shade cloth. Should I keep the seedlings outside in that? Or should I raise them inside in a window?

Whether they go outside or not where you live depends mostly on the light they'll get. Your temperatures there are fine for outside day and night - so long as it doesn't go under about 55-60 degrees the plants will be OK. The light, however, must be carefully looked at. Phals prefer shade. Outside direct sunlight will bake them.

I personally would keep the seedlings inside to watch.

Do you think under a tree where there is kind of splotchy light-- I know there is probably a more technical word-- would be good?

Under a tree with filtered light, moderate to high humidity, and intermediate to warm temperatures (temperatures that go no lower than 55 degrees F or 60 degrees F day or night, regardless of what season it is) will grow you just about any Phal you want.

Tie onto the tree with a fishing line. Wet the roots to make them more pliable. Carefully move the roots around and wrap them around the trunk or branch of the tree you want. Add a sparse amount of wet moss around the roots. Sit back and relax.

Watering is another issue. Because of your environment, you may not need to water as much, even if they're mounted on a tree. Try things out slowly, resist the urge to water too frequently at the beginning. Easier said than done.

I'm going to mount my first phal this weekend. I have an old piece of really cool driftwood-- and that way, I can hang it outside and bring it in if it gets too cold! I am really excited. Thanks for the advice.