I got a Max "coconut"

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

Research Vera Cruz, Mexico's annual rainfall, relative humidity, and annual temperatures.

Then try and find in-situ pics of Max. tenuifolia. Don't just look at the Max. tenuifolia, look at what's growing near or around it as well. You'll often find plants you recognize that will help you understand the environment the orchids grow in.

These should help.

I myself don't really know what triggers blooms with this particular species of Maxillaria. Many other Maxillarias are ridiculously easy to bloom, and they put on a real show when they do. Although, some point to the trigger being a warmer winter that doesn't drop below 60 F at night.

[Discus]

It's probably not "ready to bloom" so much as "near blooming size" or "blooming size" - to me, ready to bloom means it has an obvious spike; it's very common to sell "blooming size" or "near blooming size" orchids which will, if given the right care, flower within the next year.

[jesscorine]

Originally Posted by Discus

It's probably not "ready to bloom" so much as "near blooming size" or "blooming size" - to me, ready to bloom means it has an obvious spike; it's very common to sell "blooming size" or "near blooming size" orchids which will, if given the right care, flower within the next year.

No it actually has buds that are literally ready to open There were flowering plants available to purchase but I chose one that hadn't actually opened yet.

[Discus]

oh yay that is good. You will be pleased with the scent when they open, and I find the flowers quite attractive too.

[Vanda lover]

I wish there were orchids at our farmer's market!
Your plant looks healthy.

[The Orchid Boy]

Lucky you!

[flexdc]

I grow this one. Very forgiving plant. If you grow I next to phal it won't flower well. It needs Dendrobium light level. East facing window sun till a out 11. If your plant was in a low light area, gradually acclimate it to higher light level.

I left this plant out to die a few years back and despite it not dying it even flowered. If left above 55 in winter it flowers better than temps lower than that.
Not too soggy condition also helps.

Andrew

[fishmommy]

I grow mine in an East window where it gets direct sun until around 2pm and it loves it. It likes lots of water.

[jesscorine]

I've been gone 5 days and returned after dark, but I have a bloom! I will add a picture tomorrow

[Vanda lover]

Beautiful!