care of Hwra Lava Burst 'Puanani"

[Fran20]

Can anyone provide some tips on proper growing conditions for a Hwra Lava Burst that I received as a gift? Currently in bud and potted in lava rock in a 3" pot.
Thank you.

[Lacie]

I've got two Howeara's. They are easy and hearty little plants and quick growers. I grown mine in sphagnum which I water when it's just getting dry. I have no experience with lava rock, but Hwras like other Oncs like to stay moist. They'll also want bright light and can handle some direct sun. They are prolific bloomers too! Enjoy!

[SouthPark]

Hi Fran. I don't grow that one. But some details of suitable growing conditions can be seen here ----- Click Here.

For your media, you could use a spray nozzle with suitable spray width setting - not too narrow, but not too wide ------ and spray the bulk of your water into media around the outer regions (ie. toward the edge/rim) of the pot. And then - further in (closer to the orchid) --- spray some (but less) water.

Whichever watering methods we use, we should avoid having the bulk of the root mass (or even any roots) very wet for relatively long amounts of time. Water in or around the roots that doesn't move much or at all - can result in oxygen starvation in the roots - that is, roots can use up all the oxygen in the water.

Also maintain suitable growing temperature ranges.

[Fran20]

Thank you, SouthPark, for the link and watering advice.
Thank you, Lacie, for the encouragement. I notice you are a fellow New Yorker. Sending my good wishes. Stay safe and sound!

[camille1585]

I have one potted in medium sized bark chunks. Like mentioned earlier, Howearas appreciate standard Oncidium care/watering. I usually soak the pot when the bark is still damp, and in the hot summer months I leave a bit of water in the saucer, which is quickly taken up. I don't generally use a sprayer since it can be quite messy when used indoors! They like to be in a bright spot, and a bit of sun either very early or late in the day is fine.

[Dollythehun]

Originally Posted by Lacie

I've got two Howeara's. They are easy and hearty little plants and quick growers. I grown mine in sphagnum which I water when it's just getting dry. I have no experience with lava rock, but Hwras like other Oncs like to stay moist. They'll also want bright light and can handle some direct sun. They are prolific bloomers too! Enjoy!

Do not neglect watering. I lost both mine that way.

[Fran20]

I'm usually guilty of over-watering which is why I prefer to use lava rock.