Vanda

Vanda orchid is originated from the warm island of south pacific. So this plant prefers full sun exposure, bright light, warm temperature and lots of humidity. Generally it has long, trailing roots that draw moisture and nutrients from atmosphere. The flower is saucer sized, flat blooms with extremely heavy substance and crystalline texture that shines in the light.

Cultivation : Generally the color of Vanda is yellow, orange, scarlet, deep purple and bright fuchsia. It has powerful fragrance. The inflorescence of this orchid appears from the axis of the leaves. They are long lasting and appear in a cluster along spike.

Water & humidity : Watering must be done on a daily basis in slightly drier but warm climate. Similarly it should be cooled by constant breeze. Stagnant air can result in fungal and bacterial rot.

Light: It requires plenty of light, too little light result in lanky & soft plants. As we know Vanda orchid is fast growing so it prefers high light levels.

Temperature : The ideal temperature range for this plant is below 15˚C (59˚F) in winter and above 32˚C (98˚F) in summer. It can tolerate higher or lower temperature for short period. It generally prefers warm temperature with plenty of air movements. If we give warm temperature, plenty of light & full exposure of sun it can be grown anytime.

Feeding : These are heavy feeders. It must be feed with high nitrogen orchid fertilizer such as 30-10-10 in spring. It should be feed with general fertilizer in summer and bloom booster in autumn. During excessive cool weather winter-feeding will be wasteful. Supply plenty of water before fertilizing.

Pests & Disease : If the plant is affected by scale insects wiping the surface of leaves with methylated spirits on a cotton bud and following up with systemic spray will stop the problem.

Potting mix & Repotting: It grows best in wooden basket but it requires warm growing condition with adequate amount of bright light. Wooden slated basket is ideal. During seeding stage orchid plant must be secured to the base of wooden basket with wire to prevent them from moving around. Repotting can be done when you simply place smaller basket into bigger until the plant are too big to handle.