Vanda orchids, a group of heat-loving, are a category that is native to tropical Asia and are renowned for their colourful and fragrant blooms. While they are one of the few orchids that can produce blue flowers, they also come in a variety of other colours. These types of orchids are primarily epiphytic, meaning they attach their roots to nearby plants to absorb their specific requirements. They have large and robust roots that can be difficult to contain in a pot, and their unique water-absorbing roots enable them to cling to trees and other objects. The round foliage has a glossy waxy shine, and they come in various sizes, from miniatures to several feet tall.
These stunning and colourful orchids are useful as houseplants, but they do not tolerate cold temperatures. Plants of vanda grow upwards with one main stem and can adapt well to living wrapped around trees. Although some species can grow in soil, they require specific care and are best suited for experienced growers or greenhouse settings. With proper care, the beautiful blooms of Vanda several times a year, and these unique blooms give a shiny touch to the dull corner of your house. Once the correct growing situation is established, carping for these orchids is relatively simple, and they can bloom several times a year.
Temperature
Vanda orchids are fond of warm surroundings to grow healthily, although they can endure cold conditions for a brief period. During the daytime, These orchids require temperatures ranging from 10°C to 35°C to flourish. In contrast, at night, the temperature should be dropped from 15°C to 25°C to promote healthy growth. While high temperature is crucial, it should be accompanied by adequate watering, nourishment, and humidity to ensure the plant’s optimal development.
Lighting to Encourage Blooming of Vanda Orchids
Vanda Orchids require ample amounts of bright sunlight, making east or southeast-facing windows ideal locations for indoor planting. If planting outdoors, partial shade is the preferred option to avoid scorching from excessive exposure to direct sunlight. Ensuring the appropriate amount of lighting is crucial to cultivating healthy and vibrant blooms of vanda.
Watering
Watering for Vanda Orchid is heavily influenced by seasonal conditions. During the summer months, daily watering is necessary to maintain adequate moisture levels. In the winter season, watering should occur only once or twice per month. Consistently keeping the potting medium moist is important during the growing season, but overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to soil saturation and negatively impact the overall health of the plant. Striking the right balance with watering is essential to achieve optimal growth and longevity for the orchids.
Humidity
Vanda Orchids have a strong preference for an environment with high humidity levels. It is recommended to keep the humidity levels at around 70-80% while ensuring good air circulation. To achieve this, you can place a tray filled with water underneath your plant or use a humidifier to increase the humidity levels. This will create a comfortable and ideal atmosphere for your Vanda Orchids to thrive in.
Potting, Medium, and Repotting of Vanda Orchids
Vanda orchids are epiphytic plants that can thrive in baskets or pots if properly potted and repotted. Good air circulation and quick drainage are essential for healthy growth. A mixture of bark and moss should be used for potting Vanda orchids, which should be repotted every two to three years, or when they outgrow their current container. A larger basket may be used if more space is required. Aerial roots can be left hanging out of the basket, and repotting should be done in the spring for the plant’s optimal tolerance.
When repotting Vanda orchids, it is crucial to select a slightly larger container than the old one. Dead roots should be pruned, and the plant should be placed in its new container. Soilless growing media can provide additional support for the roots. Potting and repotting Vanda orchids requires careful attention to detail and knowledge of the plant’s unique requirements.
Fertilization
Your vanda orchid requires proper fertilization to maintain its health and properly flourish. To ensure optimal growth and blooming, it is recommended to use a well-balanced NPK fertilizer, with a ratio of 20-20-20. Use a 20-20-20 NPK fertilizer to keep these magnificent flowers blooming at the right time. During the growing season, feed them with a balanced fertilizer once a week. In winter, fertilize once or twice a month to ensure they have enough nutrients to survive the cold weather. A high-phosphorus fertilizer can be particularly effective in promoting the growth and blooming of these stunning flowers. Remember to fertilize once a week during the growing season, and once or twice a month in the winter.
Pest & Diseases that Harms Vanda Orchids
Vanda orchids are prone to attracting pests and diseases. Among the common insects that infest these orchids, mealybugs and spider mites are the noticeable ones. After finding pesky insects on your vanda, the simplest solution is to apply rubbing alcohol or homemade pesticides on the affected areas. This remedy works effectively in controlling the pests, without harming the plant. These vibrant orchids need sufficient light to thrive and bloom. Non-blooming caused by insufficient lighting. Arrange fluorescent or LED lights near the plant to provide adequate lighting.
Fungal diseases are the primary ailments that vanda orchids suffer from. These diseases are often a result of over-watering and insufficient or over-lighting. Some of the most common fungal diseases include root rot, black rot, leaf spots, pseudobulb rot, and other fungal rots. Over-watering causes these diseases, and to prevent them, you should ensure that the plant does not get waterlogged. For fungal diseases on your vanda orchids, the best way to control them is to apply a fungicide. Before using the fungicide, trim the affected leaves and dead parts of the plant. Also, make sure to avoid over-watering in the future to prevent reoccurrence.
