Quote:
Originally Posted by Becky15349
Hi Joe! I have been growing for ~20 years and I keep many phals because they are such reliable bloomers  IMO, the secret to getting more blooms is to grow a larger, healthy plant with more leaves. I have a large white phal that is about 8 years old with 16 leaves and always puts out no less than 20 blooms. Focus on your culture - give them the right light, water appropriately, fertilize appropriately, and your plants will grow and grow. Welcome to OB! |
Thank you Becky 15349! I have been focusing on what you suggest. But, I know it is easier than said. I also joined OB today. I read allot about each variety before placing it in the correct window, labelled each orchid with it's watering requirements , and fertilizer preference. All was going well.
I read that orchids should not have the air blown directly on them. Then I find out because of carbon dioxide and fungi, it is better to blown low-speed air on the plants. So, now I am going with that. I know no air circulation can lead to fungus and other problems. I have read so much and I am on info overload.
Something I also learned from an orchid expert this week is that you should give your orchids good quality water. He said the first step to good orchid health, is water quality. That the minerals and chlorine added to most public water supplies are detrimental to orchids. Since he has a PhD in genetics, I tend to believe him. In addition to being an orchid grower. I have read several places that Reverse Osmosis filtered water, or distilled water is most beneficial to orchids. I didn't understand the term Reverse Osmosis when I read it a 100 times. I threw it aside, and didn't look it up because I figured it didn't apply to me, although it was recommended for my specific orchid varieties. It is very unlike me not to research a term I don't know.
I am of the belief that you provide the correct variables to a plant and if it still is not responding well, than you pursue other antagonists.
I like your approach! My understanding is humidity should be included, but maybe you include that with water.
Remember, I am new and not questioning you in any way. I am just sharing what I have been told, and hoping you will correct me where necessary.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom!
---------- Post added at 12:37 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:32 AM ----------
Quote:
Originally Posted by jbridge758
Hi Everyone,
I am a new member, but several year follower of this board. I have been keeping 3-4 Phals for several years. I do get them to bloom each season, but only a few blooms. I decided to buy/build/design a small grow tent to keep conditions more favorable for growth. That is the primary reason for joining this board, as I do have some specific questions...although none about lighting!!!! 
Joe |
Hi Joe,
I think we joined on the same day. I wish you well with your endeavor. I am sure you will find all the answers you are looking for here. It seems to be the best resource for information.
I have a challenge ahead of me with signs of stress, insects and disease. But, I thought this would be the best place to help get my problems resolved!
The best to you!
Hello from Cedar Rapids IA
Linear Mode
