Bright Filtered Lights Defined for Orchids

[HiOrcDen]

I have bought a Brassia, and the care sheet specifies 'bright filtered light'. I am wondering how this is defined with Orchids? I have been growing a Begonia Dregei which has literally the same specification for light. It is placed directly on the windowsill facing west and slightly south. The window is thick, but no screen shade. Does this term apply equally with Orchids, so that I should use the same setup as my Begonia?

Also, we have a south facing window, which is blocked by the neighbor's house most of the day. This window has a typical window screen, and again, thick glass. Would this be a better spot?

I should add, I know folks say modern thick windows don't admit much light. Don't know if that applies, as the house is about 40 years old...

Thanks in advance, for any illumination!

[Ray]

Since “bright filtered light” is such a nebulous term, I think you may safely apply it to orchids. As with any plant, you just need to be observant of changes and adjust accordingly.

As to the “thick” windows, I assume you mean thermopane types, with two panes of relatively thin glass. If uncoated, they, have little impact on light reduction. Modern, Low-E coated widows can decrease the total solar flux anywhere from 30% to almost 50%.

As to a 40 year old house, do you know if they’re the original windows? The house I lived in in PA was built in 1969, but when we sold it in 2016, the windows (Low-E) were 4 years old.