My first orchid show. I've been bad. Vaawee, bad. Now need help.

[justjill3]

Went to my first show (at Atlanta Botanical Gardens). Said I was going to buy no more than two new babies. Had to get some supplies -- pots, medium, pot hangers. I needed to talk to some knowledgeable people about a rescued , stressed oncidium (Sharry Baby) and a soggy Den. Phal. (unknown). That was all!

Two and a half hours later (and poorer), I have the following:

• Brassavola Little Stars
• C. Blc. Toshie Aokie X Lc. Hawaiian Flare
• Oncidium Twinkle (white and peach)
• C. Sc Tokyo Magic '6-1' X Rsc. Toshie Aokie 'Pizazz'
• Ph. equestris alba X violacea
  
  
  
  
  

I explained to all that I spoke with that I had a flourescent-lit plant stand, water-filled pebble trays (and little experience or sense )

Now, I am concerned (after more reading) that my Cattleyas will not like my lamp that I leave on for security at night. I've read that some require total darkness. Can anyone tell me if the Cats above can tolerate a lamp about 20 feet away?

[Magnus A]

Congratulate to your new plants.
I do not think that the lamp will be any problem. I doubt that it is very strong and 20 feet is quit a distans when we talk light. Though IF it is a 500 W lamp with a good reflector your Catteya could have some problems.

/Magnus

[watsgw1155]

You are as bad as I am! Just can't help myself. Always room for more.

[justjill3]

Magnus, thank you for your input. I turned the lamp down to the lowest setting and it has a shade. I hope you are right.

Gary, these "things" are addictive! They're like some strange candy invented by a mad man who is trying to trap little children. Kinda' Wonka-esque.

[katfemme89]

Originally Posted by justjill3

Gary, these "things" are addictive! They're like some strange candy invented by a mad man who is trying to trap little children. Kinda' Wonka-esque.

HAHAHA!!! So true!

[Ross]

Jill, if your security light is in a table or wall lamp with shade it won't affect the orchids at all.

[isurus79]

I grow all my Catts outside and there are several street lights around that keep the area fairly well lit up at night. I have no problems with any of them growing or blooming. A little light shouldnt be a problem at night. And I totally agree with the Willie Wonka statement!! Wait till your little plant stand somehow morphs into a greenhouse!! Dont kid yourself, it'll happen!!

[philoserenus]

haha i agree with that. there was once a phal on my tv. then it turned into 3, then 8, then 11. haha. now i think i need to invest in some kind of multilayered stand b/c i've run outta room, haha. and ya the nite lights dun hurt too much as long it aint that strong. mines are right beside my workstation and i work quite late into most night and the seem to be fine.

[BUUZBEE]

Wow, i'd love to find a show near me! Congrats on your new plants. I'd do the same if i were there!

[justjill3]

Thanks, Ross and aloha, Steve.

I know you noticed how much time has passed since I posted this. Great news! Everybody is putting out new growth. Phals, Oncidiums, Den., and 2 out of 3 Cats. are adding new roots and/or leaves. The Brass. is adding 3 of those fabulously pointy leaves. (Flowers, next???? I hope.) Rising from the dead are the Dendrobium and Onc. Sharry Baby. So, the security light reassurances are on target.

Steve, re: the plant stand/greenhouse morph.? Uh, do you think the addition of the humidifier pushes me into that category? :-p