Everything but the bloom . . .

[blackvine]

So, most of my orchids (except Phals, but that’s another post) look really healthy – finally, after a year of growing, I’ve learned to at least get healthy roots and leaves (see pics). But, the only thing I’ve managed to bloom are Brassavola nodosas, which are RIGHT under my 4’, 4 bulb Sun System T5 fixture; and several jewel orchids, one shelf down from the same fixture.

I’ve come to the conclusion that it is LIGHT. Most of the ‘chids you see in the pics are high lighters, but they are 1 shelf – about 2 and ½ feet down from the T5. They need more LIGHT, LIGHT, LIGHT!

So . . . yesterday, I plunked down some bucks for 2 more T5s: T5 EnviroGro 4Ft 4 Tube Fixture w/Bulbs-FLT44. Now, I’ll put everything under those bad boys and they better bloom in 2014 or I quit!

So, just wondering – do you think my theory is correct? More light? And, are those ‘chids in the pics actually healthy looking? I think so, but I’m new and no blooms this year has made me lose confidence.

Thanks, all!

[Paul]

Typically, with catts the most common reason for not blooming is insufficient light. I have my catts positioned so their leaves are almost touching the tube fluorescent bulbs and they do bloom for me. Note: Crosses with Broughtonia very often require VERY high light.

[isurus79]

More light is very important, but so are seasons. Don't forget to increase and decrease the light throughout the seasons. I like to use automatic timers for this and their cheap.

[billc]

2 1/2 feet seems pretty far away for a catt. Before my SLC got too big for my light setup I had it about 12-14in. away from a 4 light T5HO.


Bill