Their leaves look like triangles rather than flat like most leaves and form a fan-shaped arrangement. This shape was adapted by the plant to survive in the drier environments found on their native islands. The leaves hold water which is used by the orchid as a water reserve during short dry periods.
The cultural requirements for Equitants are really quite simple. The two main requirements are giving them water when they need it and providing consistent air movement.
WATER
This is the most important step in growing Equitants. They need to have water available when needed by the plant. Even though the leaves will absorb some water for the plant to sustain it for short dry periods, they have no large pseudobulb water reserve. Equitants must be watered well then allowed to dry out. The leaves and roots must not be wet by night. If kept wet, the roots will soon rot away killing the plant. They enjoy rain water if you are able to supply it. A daily misting is also something that many of them are accustomed to. Let the plant dry before watering again. If they do not receive enough water, the leaves will turn brown and the little orchids will soon die. Mounted plants need to be watered every day or every other day. Potted orchids depend on the type of media used to determine the frequency of watering. Watch your orchid. They will tell you if they are happy. Are the leaves full and firm or are they wrinkled and shriveled?
AIR MOVEMENT
This is very important for the health of your Equitants. A breeze moves the humid air around the plant where the roots can extract the moisture between waterings. Provide plenty of air movement around your plants. A small fan is a welcome addition to your growing area, not only for the little Equitants but for all orchids.
LIGHT
These little orchids can be grown in a windowsill, under lights, or in a greenhouse. In areas where the weather permits they can, of course, be grown outside as well. Bright diffused light is needed. The morning sun is wonderful but protect your little jewels from the hot afternoon sun. If you are growing under fluorescent lights, you should also use an incandescent light to create the needed light spectrum to insure blooming. If the leaves start to turn red (a sign of burning), decrease the amount of light they are receiving by increasing the distance between the plant and the lights, or provide shade from the hot sun.
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