VANDA Care and Culture

Who can resist a large vanda in full bloom? These majestic plants bear incredibly beautiful flowers, which last for several weeks.

LIGHT: There are 2 types of vandas: terete-leafed and strap-leafed vandas. The terete or pencil leafed type vandas require very bright light to grow and bloom well. This type can take full sun without any problems. The strap-leafed vandas need less light (around 2,000-3,000 foot candles) and will get sunburned if exposed to higher light intensity.

TEMPERATURE: Vandas are warm growers and cannot tolerate temperatures below 60oF. High temperatures can be tolerated if accompanied by increased humidity and decreased light levels.

WATER: Vandas are usually potted in baskets and will need to be watered almost daily. This group of orchids does not like to be kept cold and damp. Water should be carefully monitored during the winter months.

HUMIDITY: Vandas need humidity between 50% and 80%. Humidity can be increased by frequent misting.

FERTILIZER: Vandas are heavy feeders and should be fed with a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) at-½ strength weekly during the growth season. Some growers use time release fertilizer as a supplement. Fertilizer should be reduced during the winter.

POTTING: Repot vandas in teak basket if you live in humid be potted using medium grade to large bark or other media. Only repot when there is root activity.

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