Next Orchid Suggestions

[gdupont]

Hey, everyone! This is sort of a broad post-- I'm considering options for my next orchid purchase, and I figured I would ask ya'll for suggestions.

I'm looking for something unique, but moreover I want something that matches my growing conditions perfectly so that it will really thrive. I live in New England, my chids stay inside pretty much year round where temps range from around 65-75 during the day and probably 50-60 at night (they're in a room that has a lot of windows and juts out with three vulnerable faces). I have a greenhouse, I keep the humidity around 70%, and it gets a bit of midday sun. I'm someone who is more likely to overwater something rather than underwater.

Any suggestions? Thank you so much, looking forward to the ideas!

[No-Pro-mwa]

How about trying some Masdevallias, Bulbos something on this order. I hope some one with more experience will chime in.

[WhiteRabbit]

Sounds like good conditions for many types. Do you like slipper orchids?

Orchids that like to be drier can be potted in lesd moisture retentive media such as lava rock, charcoal, or leca.

[Optimist]

Cimbidiums like being damp, are heavy feeders and enjoy a wide range of temperatures. They are indoor/outdoor in some regions. They are huge, but smaller minis can be had. I just mentioned that because this is the first time I will be trying one. I plan on keeping it outside most of the year.

[FSUOrchids]

Yeah maybe a cymbidium?

[OCRC_Dir_China]

Well with the above list given to you; I would add Vanilla, if my 88 year old orchid killing mother can grow one anyone can.

[MattWoelfsen]

Your conditions sound ideal for growing Neofinetia falcata--except for the over watering part. This plant comes in all shapes and sizes. They do like to have less water in the winter, as their natural habitat, Japan, Korea, and China have dry winters. Neofinetia are unique in that you will not find for sale at any local grocery store, home improvement center, or big discount stores. The blooms are fragrant and they have a lot of history--it has been cultivated in Japan since mid-1600. They also have exotic names.

[gravotrope]

I should add that anything from a cooler growing or solid intermediate range like Pleurothallis Dracula or Masdevallia types to a mountain Dendrobium or even a more sun loving showy Vanda would do well there. There are also Neofinetia/Vanda hybrids that tolerate a chill better than a regular Vanda (because neos like the cold.)

On Andy's Orchids, and also on IOSPE, you can search by requirements or country, which can lead you to plants from montane cloud forests or even something that ends up needing cold weather in order to spike. (Like the Pleurothallis restrepioides or Dendrobium kingianum I got in Massachusetts that never bloom down here because it is too hot).

My point is that we can only suggest orchids that you would then look up or lead you to the resources where you can quickly hunt down something you know you would like.

I just got a Dendrobium limpidum last month from Andy's Orchids, and the way looks is so cool I don't care if it ever blooms.

Also I am fond of the cyrtopodiums, though highly adaptable, they are space hogs.

[Leafmite]

I agree with Matt that the vanda falcata are really great orchids to grow. Angraecums are also a nice group of orchids and you can select ones that fit your environment. Good luck!