Zygopetalums are vigorous, sprouting lily-like long leaf fans from large pseudobulbs. Deep veined, light green leaves
Source: AuSable Botanicals Ltd.
Water
It is very important not to allow the Zygopetalum orchid to dry out completely between waterings. While the orchid is in its active growth phase, during the warmer months you will want to water more often (about once a week), and less often during the cooler months when the orchid is not growing. positive development.
Light
Zygopetalums need intense indirect but bright light to thrive. If the orchid receives the optimal amount of light, the leaves will have a yellow-green color. Too little light will cause the leaves to turn a dark green color and may prevent the plant from blooming. The best place to grow Zygopetalum orchids indoors is a shaded South-facing window although an East-facing windowsill will also work as long as the orchid doesn’t receive direct sunlight.
Temperature
Zygopetalums require cool to moderate temperatures. The ideal daytime temperature for growing your Zygopetalum orchid is between 70°F and 80°F (21.1°C to 26.6°C), and nighttime temperatures are between 50°F and 60°F ( 10°C to 15.6°C). Zygopetalums should not be grown outdoors if you live in an area with warm nighttime temperatures. Zygopetalum orchids can survive temperatures up to 85°F (29.4°C), although they will need more frequent watering to ensure that they don’t dry out completely. Prolonged exposure to both hot and cold temperatures (outside the ideal range) can cause disease and flower damage.
Humidity
Zygopetalum orchids require 40-60 percent humidity. The higher the temperature, the higher the humidity. If you need to increase the humidity in your orchid growing medium, you can do so by placing your orchid on a moisture tray, placing a humidifier near the orchid, or placing the orchid pot on top of a tray filled with water and Pebble. It is important that your orchid’s roots are not directly in the water. Remember, if you have high humidity, it is equally important to maintain proper air movement to prevent orchid disease from developing. If black spots appear on your Zygopetalum leaves, this is a sign that you need more air circulation. An easy way to increase air movement for your plants is to place an oscillating fan near your orchid.
Fertilizer
Zygopetalum orchids should be fertilized with a half-strength solution at each watering when the orchid is in its active growth phase. When the orchid is not actively growing, fertilizing once a month is sufficient. Remember to only fertilize your orchid when the medium is still damp. Never apply dry fertilizers as this can cause great damage to the roots. If you notice the tops of Zygopetalum starting to turn black, this is a sign that too much fertilizer has built up. It is important to drain off excess fertilizer (once a month) so that excess fertilizer does not harm the roots or leaves of the plant.
Potting
Zygopetalum orchids should be repotted once a year or two or once the medium is still soggy and no longer drains well or if the orchid is starting to thrive in the pot. A good potting mix for Zygopetalum orchids is a mixture of bark, coconut chips and perlite. Before repotting your orchid, you should cut off damaged or rotting roots with sterile cutting tools. Although the roots are thick, be careful with the roots as they can easily break off. Orchid Zygopetalum can be divided as long as you have at least three pseudobulbs per division. You can then plant each part in a separate pot with a new medium.
