I'm a novice

[plumpudding]

I bought an ascocentrum last week and have it hanging outside in shade - I live in Houston so thought there should be enough light for it. It is in a wooden basket so I am watering every day by pouring bottled water through the basket. At present the night temperatures are about 63 and the day temperatures about 75-85, which according to my book is what this plant likes.

Would someone with experience alert me to anything I'm doing wrong? I don't want to kill it! Also do I need to do anything special to get it to flower?[IMG][/IMG]

[justatypn]

Light is a crucial factor in blooming, it is on a wide range of foot candles being 2000-3600. As for temperature, your conditions are perfect, summer days average 78-87 degrees and nghts average at about 65-75 with high humidity of about 85%. Do not allow your ascocentrum to dry out, it likes plenty of water from spring to autumn. You did not say anything about a fertilizer regimen but like all orchids weak weekly, 1/4 recommended strenght should be applied weekly during active growth periods. There is a resting period during the winter with temps days at about 53-57 degrees and nights 76-40ish degrees. Would love to see some s of your new addition, but it sounds like you have the perfect enviroment and yes, I forgot Aboard to the OB...a fun and information place to be...

[smartie2000]

Welcome!

[plumpudding]

What do you mean by "don't let it dry out"? At present the plant is bare root in the basket, anchored with some wood blocks. should I put in some moss or orchid chips to keep the roots moist? The water I am using has had the recommended amount of Schulz orchid fertilizer added to it.
Today I am concerned that the leaves are rapidly deteriorating - the brown, dry patches are spreading. I think I need some quick remedial action!