FERTILIZER
After watering and while they are still wet, you can water again using a good balanced liquid fertilizer at 1/2 the recommended strength. Never fertilize a dry plant. Fertilizing twice a month will benefit the growth of your orchid. When new growth matures you can change to a bloom boosting formula 10-30-20 to enhance the flowering.
TEMPERATURES
The temperature range is from the high 60's F during the night and the high 80's F during the day. Avoid prolong exposure to temperatures below 60F or above 90F.
POTTING OR MOUNTING
You can mount your little Equitants using fishing line or other material to secure them to the mount. Use sphagnum moss or cocoa fiber as padding around the roots. Cork slabs and tree fern plaques work well or even moss plant poles are good supports... especially if you are cramped for room. A moss plant pole will let you mount many of these little orchids in very little space and makes for a very nice display especially when several plants are in bloom. They will also do well in tiny 1" to 2" pots filled with loose charcoal, small orchid bark, small cocoa chips, or any other fine material. Never overpot your little orchids (overpotting is using a pot much larger than necessary to hold the orchid). Use a media that will dry quickly and not hold moisture to allow the roots to dry between watering.
BLOOMING
Inflorescence are produced on new or older mature growth. They produce a shower of blooms 2 -3 times a year. After blooming, do not remove the inflorescent until it is brown and dead. Often the old inflorescence will branch and bloom again for you.
Try some of these little orchids and I am sure after you try one you will purchase another, then another, as you know Orchids are Addictive!
Don't forget if you have a favorite orchid you want learn about just send me a note linda@orchidlady.com and I will see if it grows in the Orchid Garden. I have had a request to see what I can find on the beautiful Zygopetalums, so watch for them to bloom in the Orchid Garden soon. Until then, good luck with your new adventures in the fascinating world of orchids!
Don't miss all of the specials my Preferred Vendors have. I am sure you will find just the orchid you are looking for. Silk Orchid Flowers, Multimedia Orchid CD, Orchid Organizer, supplies and green house items all can be found on the Preferred Vendor site. Looking For a Gift? I am sure they will have something for everyone!
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