Maxillaria tenuifloria potting

[LeeB]

Hi, I received a big hunk of the above chid at a plant swap yesterday. What would be the best way of growing it? Some say in a basket, some say mount, some say in a pot. Thank you. L

[WhiteRabbit]

I believe these like to be quite moist while they are growing, so bear that in mind when deciding.

[cbuchman]

From Orchid Wiz:

water should be reduced for cultivated plants in winter, but they should not be allowed to dry out completely or to remain even relatively dry for long periods. Fertilizer should be reduced or eliminated until water is increased in spring.

GROWING MEDIA: Plants may be mounted on tree-fern or cork slabs if humidity is high and plants are watered at least once daily in summer. Several waterings a day may be necessary for mounted plants during very hot, dry periods. Because most growers find it difficult to keep mounted plants moist enough, they are usually grown in pots using an open, fast draining medium which contains materials that retain some moisture such as chopped sphagnum and perlite. Charcoal is often added to help keep the medium open and prevent it from becoming sour. Plants should be repotted just as new root growth is starting in order for the plants to become re-established in the shortest possible time.

[Oscarman]

Mine grows mounted on EpiWeb with a pad of NZ moss underneath. It gets watered daily. Doesn't seem to be doing much so far - think I better check on it!! lol. Previously it suffered in a smallish pot and grew all out of it. Definitely is a rambler, so a rectangular mount makes sense to me.