Fertilizer Change During Flower Spike

[Bloomer001]

I agree with you Roberta, I'm learning that growing culture is the primary factor -- and is far more important than fert selection. I read your "101 culture notes" prior to potting these orchids. Your note re air circulation is 100% accurate. The orchid in the green pot is the smallest by far. The green pot orchid is in an internal plastic pot with holes, but the external green pot restricts air circulation compared to the open red tin that the other 3 orchids are planted in. I believe this factor caused the green pot orchid to grow about 30% less than the others in the red tin, with all other factors being roughly the same. When I repot next spring, I'm going to find a pot that allows more air circulation.

Coincidentally, the first flower is beginning to open today!