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ONDONTOGLOSSUM Odontoglossums are considered by some growers to be the loveliest of all orchids. Their elegant flowers are quite breath taking, and there are numerous blooms on tall spikes. LIGHT: Odontoglossums require bright, filtered light to bloom. The proper light level ranges from 1,500-2,500 foot candles. Leaves should be a medium green in color, not dark green. If summer day temperatures are high, light levels can be reduced to keep the leaves cool. TEMPERATURE: Odontoglossums are cool/intermediate growers and enjoy day temperatures below 85 degrees F year-round. Night temperatures around 55 degrees F are best. Short periods of warmer day temperatures may be tolerated, if humidity and air movement are increased, and light level is decreased. WATER: Odontoglossums like to be kept some what moist and do not tolerate prolonged dry periods. Pleated leaves are a symptom of insufficient water or humidity. These deformed leaves are permanent reminders that they have once been mistreated. HUMIDITY: Odontoglossums need humidity between 40% and 80%. In a home growing environment, humidity can be increased by the use of trays partially filled with water and gravel, so that the pots never sit in water. FERTILIZER: Odontoglossums are not heavy feeders but do require regular feeding. Use a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) applied at ¼ - ½ strength every week or every 2 weeks. Flush with plain water once a month. POTTING: Repot odontoglossums soon after the blooms are gone. Select a pot that will allow for 1 or 2 years of growth. Use a fine-grade medium with drainage material at the bottom of the pot. Keep somewhat shaded after repotting until new roots form. |
