1st setup

[lawngnome]

I got my orchid today, i think its a phalaenopsis amblis or something like that. Anyways, this is my setup with a 21 watt t8 over it. It is near a west facing window with plenty of air flow. Are there any problems with this setup so far?

With light on


Without light


I could not find any cleaer rules as to when to repot, do the roots look too crowded in this pot?

[Tindomul]

How hot is that light? If its a cool light, then everything is ok. I can't see the roots in your pot, sorry. Nice Phal!!!

[Ross]

Looks a bit dim for my tastes, but not bad. Any way to brighten the lights? Maybe add another? From what I can tell, the roots look ok. I'm just a bit concerned on the light. Normally a 21 watt T8 is too low unless it is right on top of the foliage - but that's just my opinion - I grow Phals in a south-facing bay window with added lights (3 each 55 watt copact flourescents - t5) You'll eventually know by the color of the leaves - if they get real dark green and the plant refuses to rebloom, it's too dim. Forgot to say, repot when the mix appears to take forever to dry out. Phals don't like either wet roots or dry roots - just wet when you water drying to a nice white.

[Ross]

Originally Posted by Tindomul1of9

How hot is that light? If its a cool light, then everything is ok. I can't see the roots in your pot, sorry. Nice Phal!!!

Tin, don't look at the blossom spike, look at the leaves. They are dark in both photos. He has a t8 flourescent - you know, shop light or cabinet light. Pretty dim, actually.

[lawngnome]

I just got the phal, so it may be early to tell if it is enough light but i am going to follow your advice and add another one.

[Ross]

Good call. Betcha another light will help a lot.

[markr]

Personally, I'd at least double the amount of light you have and try to move it closer - I know it is difficult with such a nice bloom, but perhaps when it is finished blooming. T8 fluorescents aren't really good for much unless the distance is 12 inches or less. Preferably less.