patio photo, any suggestions based on observed lighting?

[betwixtimes]

So I have a patio, which is the extent of my garden, I'm kinda of scared of housing more orchids, as I think what I have is pretty happy right now---in the kitchen.

I was thinking, Maryland, we're built on a swamp, have decent humidity, sun and heat---what else would be happy?

So I'm fixing up my patio, have my 'growing corner' no Orchids---yet. Anyone have a suggestion based on the photo?

Basically bright indirect sunlight most of the day. Some direct EARLY morning sunlight, and several sun thirsty plants which give filtered sun.

All the plants to the right of the shelf will be gone in a week. Plant sitting. Plenty of room for 1 or 2 or more...I really want something with fragrance.

Thanks for the suggestions!

[Royal]

First of all, I'd suggest trying to get a couple with different blooming seasons so you can have something to enjoy all year. I'd start with something fairly forgiving and fast growing, just to get the feel for them, and to be more likely to get reliable blooms.

With that being said, I'd get a Brassavola nodosa, or one of it's hybrids. They can handle the high light and the occasional missed watering. Winter blooming, VERY fragrant, but only at night. Then I might think about a Laelia. Some are very tolerant of extreme temps, and several are Fall bloomers. Encylcias frequently bloom in the Summer. That just leaves spring. Hmm...

[betwixtimes]

Yeah right now I have two cymbidiums, in the kitchen. I just think tomorrow if I happen to go to the nursery and happen to be left alone---I might bring home a new friend. We shall see. I just know that there isn't much that will grow on the patio, because we get indirect sun, the patio is covered and doesn't allow for direct sun. While there are some plants that love it, I'd like another Orchid.

[kavanaru]

Originally Posted by betwixtimes

I was thinking, Maryland, we're built on a swamp, have decent humidity, sun and heat---what else would be happy?

Frogs and Mosquitoes!


just kidding I think RoyalOrchids suggestions are in the right direction... If you have that much light, humidity and hgh temps.. try with Epidendrinae: Brassavola, Cattleya, Laelia, Epidendrum... many of them grow well under these conditions and make a great display (many of them are also very fragarnt: Brassavola nodosa, Rhyncholaelia digbyana and many Cattleyas)

I would also try Vandaceous (Vanda, Rhynchostillis, Ascocenda)...

a especies I would try for sure if I had those conditions is Epigeneium lyonii, but maybe indoors or well shaded... Epigeneium lyonii 'Profusion' (aka treacherianum)

[Ross]

I would recommend adding Dendrobium anosmum just because it's very easy to accomodate (it's deciduous) and very fragrant in spring when it blooms on bare canes. It can be hung, if mounted, from the side of the plant stand.

[betwixtimes]

I love the frogs---our mosquitoes *squish* We recently gained a new type which can either choose to die or fly away even after to try and squish them.

Those are some spectacular displays. WOW!
Time for some research. Thanks.

[Ross]

Where is the "Tri-State Area"?

[betwixtimes]

Tri-state: Maryland, DC, VA. I'm a stones throw from the three, like 20 minutes by car, and not too far from the PA/WV borders.

[Ross]

Then you still will be bring the 'chids in for winter. I guess that's why I asked. The Dendrobium anosmum can take pretty cool temps (down to like 35 degrees F) but not below freezing and no frost. Here is a picture -

[CoolPhrog]

Frogs and Mosquitoes!

You have something against swamps, Ramon?.... I happen to live right smack in the middle of a swamp...