Indoor orchids using window light only

[Zoomom31]

Feeling a little shy here, because, compared to so many of you, I am SUCH a novice! Despite the fact that I've been keeping orchids over the past 20+ years, it has been an intermittent hobby, often with breaks because I got so discouraged. Well - I am happy to report that, though I am FAR from being "she who knows a lot now", I can at least claim to be "she who is learning more and having more successes!!".

First, I use no artificial lighting. I know that will get some heads shaking, but I have tried to work with species and hybrids that, for the most part, are canopy-dwellers, or in dappled shade on the ground; a few higher-lighting-needs 'chids thrown in because I HAD to try them, and they are closest to the windows.

I have 2 areas for the orchids - main growing area is in the kitchen. This consists of 2 racks that I made from PV C and 1/2 inch heavy plastic mesh. This makes sure nobody is sitting in water. I have a small humidifier beside the racks, on a timer, for 15 minutes every 2.5 hours for fogging. In addition, I water with a battery-powered water wand/canister, and mist with a spray bottle. The kitchen windows are north and east facing.

The other area is in my den. This window faces west, but is somewhat shaded from direct sun by a lot of trees in the yard. This area is for the bloomers They get to keep me company, and act as a gorgeous backdrop for my 8 bettas. The bettas get shade from the orchids, and the orchids get ambient humidity from the betta tanks. Additional misting and watering here, too, of course.

Thanks for looking - sorry this is so long-winded!!

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[DeaC]

You're set-up looks very interesting and seems to bring you great success. I think it's vital to know what ones conditions are and finding plants that will be happy in such climate. I myself have south and west windows and 4 growlight stands and that will have to do. Now some plants are outside under the umbrella on my small patio getting a bit of vitamin D!

[cbuchman]

I use only natural light too. I summer outdoors and have a sun room for the winter. I love your set up and if it works for you - go for it.

[Zoomom31]

Thank you!! I live in Michigan - not exactly tropical paradise, and I do have to turn my back on so many gorgeous orchids that I simply know I can't give what they need. This is what I have to work with, so making sure I get plants that can work - saves me a lot of sadness, honestly!!

[Hiester]

Welcome! Hey, it looks like you're having some great successes. Look at all those blooms!

[littlefrog]

Where in Michigan? If you aren't going to orchid society meetings, you are certainly welcome to. We have lots of societies in Michigan. Let me know and I'll hook you up.

Rob

[JMNYC]

I grow indoors without augmentation in natural light as well. But I am blessed that both growing areas have a South east exposure. But that you have at least one Eastern exposure is a very fab thing!

You can grow orchids requiring lower light in your other areas, and believe me, there are plenty to choose from---and possibly some catts near your East facing window.

[Zoomom31]

Rob, you and I have met before - I visited your LittleFrog Farm several years ago and bought some orchids from you Unfortunately, I am disabled to the point now where I am pretty home-bound, so attending anything is out of the question. Thank you so much for the invite, though!!

---------- Post added at 04:29 AM ---------- Previous post was at 04:26 AM ----------

I do indeed have some catts in that east window They have been my greatest challenge; lost many of them over the winter; the temps that close to the windows were extremely gold this year, and I lost 10 plants overall. Not a one of the catts has rebloomed for me; I am not sure what else I can do, but I think not replacing them is what I am going to do. I don't think they like my conditions ...

[katrina]

Looks like you're doing great...all those blooms are proof of that. Love the betta companions.

[tarev]

Love your set-up! I also grow some indoors and no extra lighting too. Good growing!