VANDA

Vanda has become one of the favored darlings of the orchid world in the second half of the 20th century. The foliage, handsomely symmetrical and sculptural, provides an ideal setting for the compact, upright spike which is densely set with richly colored, 2-inch flowers. In addition, the show from one spike can last for eight weeks or more, and vigorous plants, if adequately fertilized, can be expected to bloom twice yearly.

Temperature:

The ideal day temperature is 75-85 degrees F., while the ideal night temperature is 65-75 degrees F. Occasional temperature extremes are tolerated if exposure is not prolonged.

Light:

Vandas and their relatives require a good amount of light. They enjoy full sun in the morning but will require shading from about 11am-3pm; less shading will be necessary in the late afternoon. Their leaves should be a light green color and a darker green color indicates too little sun.

Water:

Basically, Vandas grow best when their potting medium becomes dry in-between waterings. These plants are epiphytes in nature, (i.e. growing on top of trees) and are used to drying out between the rains of their natural habitat.

Repot:

Vandas should not be repotted unless the plant have outgrown the pot (every 2 or 3 years) or when the potting medium begins to deteriorate. Or when the mixture become sour, does not drain rapidly and is invaded by snow mold or shows green mold on the surface. A coarse medium such as medium-grade fir-bark, or coarse-grade fir-bark will work well.

Feeding:

High nitrogen fertilizers (25-9-9) can be used all year around at one teaspoon per gallon of water. Feed once a month.