What type of soil is best for growing Oncidium orchids
Do you know these? The best soil for growing Oncidium orchids and the knowledge of green plant flowers, such as the cultivation methods and skills of Oncidium orchids, are as follows:
Oncidium orchids, also known as吉祥兰 (lucky orchids), 跳舞兰 (dancing orchids), 舞女兰 (dancing girl orchids), etc., are cultivated in both the north and south of China, with more in the south. Many flower enthusiasts enjoy growing Oncidium orchids in their homes, but this plant is not easy to cultivate and rarely blooms, mainly because its care methods are not mastered. Here are some tips on how to grow and care for Oncidium orchids.
I. Cultivation Methods for Oncidium Orchids
1. Soil Requirements
The soil should be fertile and well-draining. Flower enthusiasts can prepare their own growing medium, such as using fine fern soil, peat, charcoal, vermiculite, and broken brick stones, in a ratio of 4:1:2:2:1.
Before planting, place a layer of broken tiles at the bottom of the pot to improve drainage and increase soil aeration.
2. Light Requirements
Adequate light supply is beneficial for the growth of Oncidium orchids, but they prefer diffused light and are averse to direct sunlight.
In the growing season, it's best to place Oncidium orchids in a diffused light environment. In the summer, shade about 70% of the light. In spring and autumn, shade about 45% of the light. In winter, place the Oncidium orchid pots in a sunny indoor location to receive adequate diffused light.
3. Temperature Requirements
Different Oncidium varieties have different temperature requirements. A temperature range of 18 to 25 degrees Celsius is most conducive to the growth of thick-leaved varieties, with the minimum temperature not lower than 12 degrees Celsius. A temperature range of 10 to 22 degrees Celsius is best for thin-leaved varieties, with the minimum temperature above 8 degrees Celsius.
4. Water Requirements
Oncidium orchids enjoy moisture, and the air humidity should be maintained at around 70% during their growing season. When watering Oncidium orchids, the potting soil should be kept half-dry and half-wet. During the peak growing season, water twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, mainly with light water. In winter, when it's cold and the temperature is low, water should be controlled.
5. Fertilization Requirements
When potting, sufficient bottom fertilizer should be added, usually well-rotted bone meal and coconut shell. In the seedling stage, apply a special flower fertilizer once a month, and also add some calcium fertilizer.
II. Precautions
1. Regularly change the potting soil
When growing Oncidium orchids in pots, change the potting soil every two to three years. When repotting, discard the old soil and replace it with a newly prepared nutrient-rich soil. Remove any rotting roots and withered branches. The soil should be disinfected before replanting.
2. Ensure good ventilation
Proper air circulation is beneficial for the healthy growth of Oncidium orchids. During their growing season, ensure good ventilation and shading, especially in spring and summer. When growing Oncidium orchids indoors, often open the windows for ventilation. In winter, when it's cold, also ensure proper ventilation to maintain indoor air circulation, which can reduce the chances of diseases and pests.
The above sharing on the best soil for growing Oncidium orchids and the complete introduction to the cultivation methods and skills of Oncidium orchids are for everyone's learning and understanding!