Hello to all, Introductions

[OrchidMike]

First time forum user. Went to High School in Tampa Florida where I started my interest in Orchids. Basically hung them out under a tree and fertilized. Moved to Plano Texas, after graduating from USF, where my orchids froze. It does get cold in Texas despite the record heat wave we got this year.

Started collecting orchids again last year. First 4 orchids were "Rescue Orchids". Have them in my office window which faces West. I have one Oncidium that bloomed this spring and is getting ready to bloom again. I have another large Oncidium that started 4 new shoots this spring, but didn't bloom. It now has 8 new shoots forming - hopefully they will produce blooms.

Concerns:
UV protection on windows and how it may be affecting my orchid growth.
Dry environment - noticed plants look dry increased watering from 2Xweekly to 3Xweekly
Softened Water - I think the water at work is softened and the salt may be causing my orchid roots to brown.
Dendrobiums - I've read that they need cool nights to set blooms, I'm thinking of bringing my 2 home and setting them outside (yes, I will bring them in if chance of frost - ha)
I have one more problem, but will take that up in a different thread.

Interests:
Semi - Hydroponics and I notice that there is a thread for that. I'm thinking this might help solve my problems at work with a dry environment.

[Kelo]

Welcome, Mike! Enjoy the 'Board'!

[Eyebabe]

Welcome!

I use s/h for my cattleyas with great success.
I personally have not had good success using s/h for my oncidiums. I use Aussie Gold for them which I don't know alot of people that use this.
Good luck with it though

The dendrobiums I don't grow but my hubby has a few. He was willing to let them out until the weather was 40's but I went out and brought them in
We are arguing over it a bit still
They do need to get cold though.

Soft water is probably more of an issue with your Oncidiums than humidity. Try distilled water from the super market and fertilize sparingly.

[Zoi2]

Hello and welcome.
Joann

[RosieC]

Welcome to Orchid Board Mike