Restrepia guttulata

[Jennyfleur]

Hello Everyone,
Here's a couple of pics of my new (and first) Restrepia. I've mainly got all you guys to thank for introducing me to these (esp Rosie!)

I know that they're cool growers and like more water than others, but I was wondering if anyone could give me a few pointers. For example,

How cool do you grow yours (I think the spot I have for it in a north window may be a little too cool)?

How often do you fertilse?

Do you let them dry out at all, or just let them appraoch dryness before watering?

Do you mist them at all?

Sorry for so many questions, I haven't been able to find a decent culture sheet yet on the web! Thanks in advance for any help

[RosieC]

Cool, looks like that came from Burnham from the pot and the handwriting on the tag. Looks like it's in bud too

I think I keep mine too cool, but they are surviving. Mine are currently at 5C-10C most of the time. In the summer a lot warmer. I would probably advise keeping them above 10C though. I don't think mine are really liking being sooo cold.

I try not to let them fully dry out. However mine have several times. I fertilise every other watering, however often that works out. I don't purpusfull mist, however they are sitting in a place that will catch a light mist as I spray some other orchids.

I grow in porus clay pots. B&Q near me sell some in their outdoor section which are similar size to the plastic ones Burnham use. It's the only place I've found porus pots. Other non-glazed ones I've found are frost resistant which actually stops them being porus.

The idea of the porus clay is that in the summer it cools the root zone so they can take higher temperatures. You have to water quite frequently in the summer because again the water is evaporating quite quickly, but that's what helps keep them cool.

[Jennyfleur]

Fantastic! Thanks Rosie I go past a B&Q on the way to work, so I'll try and stop in and look for a pot.

Yes, there are two buds which I why I was I'm anxious that I don't lose them before they open! ... I also wouldn't bet against me getting another at some point, if I can keep this one alive - it is just too cute!

PS, and you're right, it is from Burnham