Vivi's Orchid CornerAugust 2000 - Volume 5, Issue 7
"TIPS FOR AUGUST"Dear Orchid Friends:How have your orchids faired this summer? August is truly a time that can take its toll on your orchids. We’re now entering those long, languid summer days: high temperatures, humidity, fewer breezes. Here are some tips to keep your orchids healthy.Think about the general growing requirements of your individual orchids. August is a hot month and the sun is still high in the sky. Orchids that prefer more shade and cooler temperatures can suffer form heat stress. Determine whether any of your orchids should be moved to another location. The Florida mid day sun easily burns the leaves of orchids. Shade tolerant orchids (Phalaenopsis, Paphiopedilums, Miltonias) suffer stress easily in these higher temperatures. Move them to a shadier location to keep them from withering.  Warmer temperatures dry out pots and baskets much more rapidly, so maintain moisture, humidity and air circulation. Mist or water more frequently. Despite the humidity, your plants still require more water during this month. As humidity rises, your plants are more susceptible to developing disease, mold, root rot, etc., if there is insufficient air movement. Space your plants (as much as possible) to allow good air movement between plants. The use of a fan is helpful or move them to a breezier location on your patio. Take care to avoid placing your plants in windows if the sun’s rays are too hot. The reflected sun on the glass can cause sunburn.The stronger light conditions coupled with longer days can affect fertilizer absorption. If your plants are weakened from insufficient amounts of water, they are not healthy enough to absorb fertilizers properly. Fertilizer burn can occur if your stressed plant is fertilized with higher concentrations of fertilizer. Use a more dilute solution, water well in between fertilizing, and observe for salt build up on your pots and potting medium. Fertilizer burn will cause a yellowing of your orchids. The trick is to learn the proper balance of light, water and fertilizer to match your plants and your environment. August is a great month for Rhyncostylis, Vandas and Dendrobiums. Any yellow crossed Cattleyas should be blooming. My oncidiums and Phal. Mahagony’ Belle" are putting forth. Stake your orchid growth and flower stalks as they mature to promote upright growth. Be generous with your fertilizer for these orchids. They are heavy feeders and like high light and high humidity. Bud formation should begin soon on your other orchids. Healthy orchids will produce better flowers. Most of your repotting should be done by now. (Yes, there are always just a few more yet to repot!) South Florida orchidists still have another month or more to finish our repotting duties. Insects/diseases are more prolific during these sultry summer days. Pay close attention to your plants and take steps to rid of the infestation or disease. Treat your plants accordingly. Bacterial infections are common with fleshy leaved orchids ( Phals). Leaves will appear withered and lifeless. Cattleyas can develop Botrytis infection. Good air circulation is key for all of your orchids. If I could offer one bit of advice, it is: Your environment affects how you grow orchids. Each of us has a different living space: varying degrees of shade, number of trees, area, direction in which your dwelling faces. All of these factors affect how your orchids grow. Know when you get peak sun, when it is more shaded in different locations throughout your yard. Be vigilant in observing your orchids. Look for infestation. Notice the leaf development. Notice whether your plants are yellowed or withered. Then, determine your watering and cultural needs based on all these factors. Choose orchids to match where you live. Remember to water well during these hot summer months since your plants also become thirsty. Change the location of your plants if the sun is too bright. If something isn’t working, change it. Do remember to water, provide air movement and be adaptable. Your orchids will thank you! Until next time, |
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