Hello from England - Page 4 - Orchid Board

CATLOVER · #31 05-07-2007, 04:39 PM

Hi,
Yes I believe it is the first bloom. It had 5 or 6 blooms when I bought it. It gets down into the 50's I think at night in winter or maybe lower. I can't remember. I do have a high low thermometer/humidity instrument, but it is in another growing area at present. I have been leaving the window open at night and it gets down to probably 10 celcius. It is getting warm in the daytime so will soon put it under lights in the basement. It is on a tray above water, and I filled a pot with water ,inverted a small pot in that and then put the plants on top of that to give it more humidity. I water quite often. Don't let the medium dry out. I 'm sure it's environment could be much better but that is the best I can do. I do have plastic covers over my light stands and that really helps with the humidity. Also have a fan in each stand.
I grow a lot of dendrobiums especially the nobile type. I love to put my aggregatums and perishi in a window and forget them for 3 months. If you would like I can send you some pics if I can figure out how to do it.
My husband and I are going to England in June to visit my cousin and his wife, then to Spain for a week. I was wondering if there were any orchid or flower shows on while we are in Preston.

Restrepia · #32 05-09-2007, 03:48 PM

Generally if you can maintain high humidity, strong air movement and cool conditions with regards to growing Pleurothallids, then you can sit back and enjoy the rewards! The bonus with Restrepias is that they are a lot more tolerable than most Pleurothallids; they can handle higher temps, higher light and you can get away with growing them with lower humidity.

The big bonus for me is taking leaf cuttings!

I love these little gems and will always recommend them for a beginner who wishes to get into growing Pleurothallids.

We have an international show on the 16th & 17th June 2007 at Peterborough. There will be exhibitors from all over the world attending.

Here is the link: PETERBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL ORCHID SHOW

Tindomul · #33 05-10-2007, 12:55 AM

I didn't know Restrepias were easier than other Pluerothalids.

Maybe I should look into getting some. Thanks!

Restrepia · #34 05-10-2007, 01:28 PM

Of course this is just my opinion. I grow many different Pleurothallids and Restrepias are just so more forgiving if conditions are not 100%.

If a beginner was to ask me should I try a Masdevallia or a Restrepia then for ease of culture, an abundance of flowers throughout the year and the ability to take cuttings, my answer would be Restrepia every time.