Vanda orchids produce some of the more stunning flowers in the genus. This group of orchids is thermophilic and is native to tropical Asia. In their native habitat, Vanda orchids hang from trees in a nearly soilless environment. It is important to mimic this condition as much as possible when growing Vanda orchids. Vanda orchid care is very simple
Source:
Vanda orchid care
Growing Vanda orchids requires some elements that are hard to grow at home: high humidity, high heat, bright light and turbulent air flow, as well as a period of wet “rain” followed by a period. drought. Additionally, these specimens can easily grow 5 or 6 feet in length when the veil of their aerial roots is included. For these reasons, vandas are better suited as greenhouse plants, where they can thrive under overhead irrigation and sunlight.
The difference between well-developed and substandard vanda can be profound. Hardy vandas reward their industrious owners with vibrant blooms of vibrant color year-round.
Light
Vandas require bright light, but they usually don’t thrive in full sunlight. They are adaptable to full sun, although these plants are often washed out and are not as hardy as plants grown in light shade to avoid strong sun. Be mindful of the type of vanda you have, as some species need more sunlight than others.
Soil
These orchids grow naturally in rocky areas with little soil. Their large roots curl through the air and cling to nearby trees and other objects. Growing them in a regular potting mix can kill the plant. Instead, choose a basket with good air permeability for the roots. To keep the plant in place, add bark, peat moss, or another soilless medium to the basket. You can also use an orchid-specific growing medium. Eventually, the roots will cling to the basket to keep the plant upright.
Drinking water
Vandas requires a lot of water. In fact, during periods of high temperatures, they may need to be watered twice a day. If not, chances are you still need to water once per day, although you should step back to about once a week during winter dormancy. During the growing season, the media should be kept moist but not soggy.
Temperature and humidity
Vandas prefer temperatures above 65 degrees F. They can tolerate lower temperatures, but prolonged cold exposure can profoundly affect plant growth and flowering. Exposure to any temperature below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can cause delayed flowering up to a year.
Likewise, vandas plants need high humidity to thrive. They need humidity of at least 60 percent and preferably around 80 percent. To increase humidity, you can place the plant on a gravel tray filled with water, as long as the roots are not directly in the water.
Fertilizer
Vandas are prolific, and well-fed plants bloom better. Fertilize weekly with a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer throughout the growing season. You can switch to a high phosphorus fertilizer every third time to promote better blooms. When the weather is cool, cut back on fertilizer to once every two to four weeks.
Vanda orchid propagation
Vanda orchids are rarely propagated from seed because the seedlings are very fragile and the process can take a long time. Instead, these orchids are often propagated from cuttings.
Vanda orchids develop small leafy branches, often found just above the main root structure. When one of these branches has two or three leaves and an upper root 2 to 3 inches long, carefully cut it off from the main stem — leaves and roots branched in part — and replant in an orchid potting mix. Keep moist as the roots attach themselves to the medium, then water and feed the plant as you would any grown plant.
Potting and repotting Vanda Orchids
To start growing vanda in a basket, weave the roots through the slits of the basket and wrap the wire around the base of the stem. Use a soilless potting medium to keep the plants in place. Vandas don’t need frequent repotting, as the roots don’t mind hanging out of the basket. But if they need more space and you want to accommodate them, you can simply put the plants with the old basket in a new, larger basket. Spread the new potting medium around the roots. But avoid disturbing the roots as much as possible, as this can put the plant under serious stress.
Common Pests/Diseases
Vanda orchids are sensitive plants that can have a lot of problems if they don’t get the right amount of light and water. The most common cause of plant death is too much or too little watering. Too much watering will cause the plant