Vivi's Orchid Corner

February 2003 - Volume 8, Issue 2

"Spotlight on Light"

Dear Orchid Friends:

Proper lighting: all of us know light is a critical element for growing orchids. Growers and hobbyists discuss lighting elements. Articles provide tips and scientific definitions for adequate lighting. Yes, all of us probably know how important proper light is to our orchids. When was the last time you did a spot check on your lighting?

During the winter months, the sun is at a lower angle in the sky and is not as strong as in the spring and summer months. Shadows are longer. Perhaps it is time to move or reposition your orchids so they receive maximum light. Different times of the year produce different light patterns. You may have to move your orchids to various positions during the different seasons for optimum effect. Perhaps your orchids are set out in a sunnier location for a day or two and then returned to their original place with the onset of a cold spell. Be aware of the cold in the winter. It is extra work, but if your orchids are longing for adequate sunlight, the task may be the boost your orchids need. If your orchids are spiking, do take care to position your plants to maintain spikes in the same direction in which they are growing to prevent tortuous spikes. And remember, as spring approaches, sunlight changes and becomes more intense.

Those of us fortunate to live in South Florida probably grow most of our orchids on patios, covered lanais and in our yards. Yet, when was the last time you took a close look at your yard and its effect on lighting? Plants, trees and shadows have a dramatic effect on orchid growth. Have you noticed some of your orchids may not be as prolific in producing flowers this year? As you review your mental checklist - fertilizer, watering schedules, potting medium, and light - stop and observe your environment.

Look closely at your surroundings. Notice whether hedges, bushes or trees have grown considerably over the past few years. Note whether the trees have grown so large that they obliterate what once was a sunny area. Do any branches require pruning?

It is important to assess your surroundings periodically. Day after day, year after year, we become accustomed to the changes in our environment and fail to notice its effect on light because we see it everyday. It is the same principle if you have children. You are with them every day and it is only when someone you have not seen in a long time says, "My how they have grown." It startles us back into realization that, yes, they have grown. So too it is with our surroundings. We walk our lots, property, patios; yet, quite often we don't realize how things have changed.

There are many factors to consider in growing orchids. Adequate lighting is in my opinion, the most important. Proper lighting induces plant growth and flower spikes. Each orchid has different requirements. If your orchids aren't quite up to par, check your surroundings. Determine what simple changes can be done to provide better light for your orchids. Stay tuned to your environment. It may make all the difference!

Vivi