New Vanda merilliis

[CR7cristiano]

Originally Posted by AussieVanda

At the moment it's bare root in a slatted pot. I'm thinking I may need to add just a few pieces of chunky charcoal or similar, just to retain a little moisture for just a bit longer. The roots really are thin so do dry out quite quickly.

Simple solution; live spanish moss in the basket and around the base roots. Will retain a little moisture and create a concentrated humidity zone at the roots. Make sure its LIVE spanish moss and no the dead treated stuff in bags from the store. You will see a big difference.

[AussieVanda]

Yeah, I've always had an aversion to that stuff, probably unwarranted but ...................

[CR7cristiano]

Originally Posted by AussieVanda

Yeah, I've always had an aversion to that stuff, probably unwarranted but ...................

Don't mistake spanish moss for spagnum moss! I'm talking about the thing people usually called old man's beard. LIVING SPANISH MOSS. Lol

[AussieVanda]

Hey nik, my dwarf has a spike..... finally!!!

At this stage pointless taking a photo as it is still between the leaves and too hard to focus. I'll keep you posted......

[nikkik]

Yay! I can't wait to see pictures!

[Fairorchids]

Just read whole thread. Concerning full sun comments early in the thread, I grow all my Vandaceous plants in full sun in NJ (June-Sept); incl. Neo falcata, Rhy. gigantea, Rhy. retusa, assorted Asctm species and many Vanda & Ascocenda hybrids.

I harden them under a lattice for 10 days, then it is full sun the rest of the season. I do spray them lightly 2-3 times a day on bright days though.

I have had a few very minor burns, but given how well they bloom with full sun, it is a risk I am willing to take.