Brazilian Miniatures and how to care for them

[peeweelovesbooks]

Hi there!

I have recently purchased a Laelia liliputana, and just now purchased: Laelia kettieana; Laelia milleri and Laelia pabsti. I am hoping to win a Laelia fournieri.

My question is, how do I take care of these? I wanted to re-pot them in Erin pots, but I wanted to know if its necessary to pot them up in a rock based medium, such as LECA or lava rock.

Further, do they require fertilizing? I read somewhere that they do better without?

Lighting--I have them in my brightest spot in the office--which is very bright.

Lastly, watering? always damp? I have been watering my liliputana 3 times per week and it it starting one new growth and has a large (relative to its size) new root.

Thanks!! I love these little Brazilian Minis!!

[Dorothy]

Ahhhhhhhhhhh, Rupilocous Laelias !
Ya gotta love 'em ..

This should help you out
Orchids of The World - Laelia
How to Grow Rupicolous Laelias
The Other Jewels of Minas Gerais - Brazil's rock-dwelling laelias
http://mirandaorchids.com/brazilianorchidsVGA.html
Take a lookie at these - Rupicolous Laelias
Potting Rupicolous Laelias with Greg Allikas

[peeweelovesbooks]

Hi dorothy!!
Thanks! I've read all those and purchased some of the Baker's culture sheets.

I pot all my catts in lava rock, so besides higher lighting, I'm not too clear on the differences in growing these.

I was wondering though if anyone has personal experience with them.