Frequently Asked Questions

Dunking is one of the best methods of fertilization since the entire media gets wet with fertilizer thoroughly; however, if the runout is used to fertilize other orchids, it would be the easiest way to transmit diseases including viruses from one plant to another. Dunking can also become difficult if you have a large collection. The easiest way is to use a hand-held sprayer or a motorized sprayer, and spray the leaves as well as into the pots until fertilizer begins to run out of the pots.

Phalaenopsis are known to bloom off old spikes and so are Equitant Oncidiums. For all other orchid genera, the spike can be removed once blooming is done with. However, if you are worried about transmitting the virus through cutting a flower stalk, then you may allow the flower stalk to dry up before you make a cut.

 Algae and mosses grow in an acidic and moist environment. Orchids like to dry out between waterings while algae and mosses like to be constantly wet all the time. Whenever you water your orchids remember to water them thoroughly once or twice a day as climatic conditions demand rather than several halfhearted mistings spaced out several times during the day. If this doesn\'t solve your problem especially during the monsoons, then you can top dress with Dolomite or Calcium Carbonate(Oyster Shell). Remember that Oyster Shell generates a lot of heat and is not to be used during hot weather. This...

There are different reasons that cause yellow leaves and not all of them are a cause to worry. AGING If the plant is healthy with an active root system, the bottom or older leaves one or two yellowing could be just a part normal aging process of the leaves. LIGHT Too much light is another reason for the yellowing of leaves. Too much light will cause the chlorophyll in the leaves to deteriorate which in turn can turn your orchid yellowish to a light greenish colour and eventually cause premature loss of the leaves. If the plant is receiving the...

 The foremost reason for orchids killed by a newbie is by overwatering. A newly potted orchid has most of its roots damaged and cannot take up much water. Watering too often will kill it. Humidity around the plant needs to be increased while watering should be kept to a minimum. With established plants, there are several factors. Plants in clay pots, an increase in temperature or plants in a breezy environment need to be watered more often while watering needs to be decreased during the monsoons, in winter where it gets really cold as well as for plants grown in...