New to neos. How to pot

[Connie Star]

I've decided to give Neofinitias a try. Yes I know they are now called Vanda falcatas. I bought one from J&L orchids which I put in a neo pot with sphagnum, but not raised above the edge of the pot as they are usually shown. Is this okay?
I also bought a neostylis which I potted in sphagnum but in an aircone pot. Also okay?
Advice appreciated.

[AnonYMouse]

Should be fine if kept airy. You could poke a finger sized hole in the middle (if using a neo pot, there should be a big hole at the bottom, use that to make the hole in the sphag).

I don't have a Neostylis nor use aircone pots so can't offer any practical knowledge.

[Connie Star]

Thanks Anon Y Mouse. I think I will try that. THe sphag wants to fall out the bottom hole anyway.

[s.kallima]

You can insert a small piece of mesh from under the pot or better a small reversed net pot...

[Shoreguy]

Connie,

There is no law that says you have to pot neos the traditional way in sphagnum.

See my thread “Neofinetia Kibana”, for another way which I have had success in growing neos for over 50 years. The method is described near or at the end of the thread.

Since you are a beginning Neo grower now would be the time to try the alternate method before you get locked in.

See which you prefer and do better with.

[Cheoah]

Originally Posted by s.kallima

You can insert a small piece of mesh from under the pot or better a small reversed net pot...

This is exactly what I did for my Shutennou bought in the fall, the net pot. It seems to be working well, dries quickly. New roots developed over winter under white LED lights or eastern window. Watering mine about twice a week. Also have a bigger one with a bunch of growths in a basket w chunky bark. Will pot some divisions into moss off this I guess.

I really wanted to pot some up in the traditional mound with long strands of sphag. Very satisfying.... Also enjoy watering it. Weighs next to nothing dry with the little plastic neo pot. Using the inverted net pot makes it easy to get up higher.

[Becca]

Originally Posted by Shoreguy

Connie,

There is no law that says you have to pot neos the traditional way in sphagnum.

See my thread “Neofinetia Kibana”, for another way which I have had success in growing neos for over 50 years. The method is described near or at the end of the thread.

Since you are a beginning Neo grower now would be the time to try the alternate method before you get locked in.

See which you prefer and do better with.

Shoreguy, I read your thread for your potting mix recipe, would you mind if I ask where you purchase your shredded tree fern? Several websites only list the size as medium or course and not by length. TIA!

[Shoreguy]

Originally Posted by Becca

Shoreguy, I read your thread for your potting mix recipe, would you mind if I ask where you purchase your shredded tree fern? Several websites only list the size as medium or course and not by length. TIA!

I purchased it years ago and forgot. It is never listed by actual length but by general terms. You MUST buy it medium and break it up yourself. Do NOT buy it fine or course. Break it into lengths of approx 3/8 to 3/4 “. It is a chore but you will get used to it. Obviously don't break it individually by piece but grab a bundle, break it a couple of times, continue process, sometimes mixing it in with previous pile and breaking. Eventually stop when pieces appear appropriate.

Also, place coarser bark at the bottom of the pot for drainage.

[Hakumin]

Here's an old but good thread regarding the pros and cons of different growing media for Neos, including sphagnum and bark: Sphag vs. Bark Mix for Neofinetia

[Connie Star]

Originally Posted by Shoreguy

Connie,

There is no law that says you have to pot neos the traditional way in sphagnum.

See my thread “Neofinetia Kibana”, for another way which I have had success in growing neos for over 50 years. The method is described near or at the end of the thread.

Since you are a beginning Neo grower now would be the time to try the alternate method before you get locked in.

See which you prefer and do better with.

How do I fine your Neofinitia Kibana post with the potting instructions?