How to Cultivate Oncidium Orchids
Today, the editor will explain how to cultivate Oncidium orchids and the methods and techniques for growing this plant, as well as knowledge about flowers. Please refer to the detailed introduction below.
Oncidium orchids are also known as吉祥兰 (auspicious orchids), 跳舞兰 (dancing orchids), 舞女兰 (dancing girls orchids), etc. They are cultivated in both the north and south of China, with the south being more predominant. Many orchid enthusiasts enjoy growing Oncidium orchids as potted plants at home. This plant is not easy to cultivate and rarely blooms, mainly because its care methods are not well understood. Below are some methods and precautions for growing Oncidium orchids.
I. Cultivation Methods for Oncidium Orchids
1. Soil Requirements
The soil should be fertile and well-draining. Enthusiasts can prepare their own substrate, for example, using fine fern soil, peat soil, charcoal, vermiculite, and broken bricks 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 sensitive to direct strong light.
During the growing season, it's best to place the orchids in a diffused light environment. In summer, about 70% of the light should be shaded. In spring and autumn, about 45% should be shaded. In winter, keep the potted Oncidium orchids in a sunny indoor area to receive sufficient diffused light.
3. Temperature Requirements
Different Oncidium varieties have different temperature requirements. A temperature range of 18 to 25 degrees Celsius is most favorable for thick-leaf varieties, with the minimum temperature not lower than 12 degrees Celsius. A temperature range of 10 to 22 degrees Celsius is most favorable for thin-leaf varieties, with the minimum temperature above 8 degrees Celsius.
4. Water Requirements
Oncidium orchids enjoy humidity, with the air humidity during the growing period maintained at around 70%. When watering, the potting mix should be kept semi-dry and semi-wet. During the peak growing season, water twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, mainly with thin water. In winter, when the weather is cold and temperatures are low, water should be controlled.
5. Fertilization Requirements
When potting, sufficient base fertilizer should be added, usually some 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. Regular Potting Soil Replacement
When growing Oncidium orchids in pots, the potting soil should be replaced every two to three years. During repotting, remove the old soil and replace it with newly prepared nutrient-rich soil. Remove any rotting roots and dead branches. The soil should be disinfected before replanting.
2. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Good air circulation is beneficial for the healthy growth of Oncidium orchids. Proper ventilation and shading should be ensured during the growing season, especially in spring and summer. When growing potted Oncidium orchids indoors, make sure to open the windows for ventilation frequently. Even in winter, when it's cold, ensure good ventilation to reduce the chances of diseases and pests.
The above information is about how to cultivate Oncidium orchids and the experience and knowledge of growing methods and techniques. I hope this article can provide you with some help!