QUESTION #1
Hi Stan
Could I ask your advice on growing orchids under florescent lights? I've read it's
possible but there is never any details about how many hours
etc.
Thanks much!
Barb
Barb - Growing orchids in the home
is easier than most people think. If just beginning the hobby,
choose the varieties that best adapt to your home conditions.
There are three major cultivated groups of orchids.
The warm orchid, needing temps of 75 to 80 degree days and of
65 to 75 night degrees. These are the phalaenopsis.
The optimum orchid requirements. These are the Cattleyas, and
need day temps of 70 degrees and nights of 60 to 65.
The cool growing Odontoglossums that are native to the high mountain
regions of the Andes, do best in day temps. of 60 to 70 and night
temps of 45 to 50 degrees.
When choosing the artificial light, look for the fluorescents
that have 50% cool white and 50% daylight type.
Look for the foot-candle intensity of 800 to 1000, and suspend
the fixture 12 to 15 inches above the plants.
The best information I have seen that describes all the information
needed to understand the procedures and hard goods for successful
orchid growing is:
Countryside Books 'Orchid Culture'. There is no
Isbn number, but know it is available through the major book
stores. There are many Countryside Books, that feature specific
interests that include a wide range of topics.
Their address... A B Morse Co . 200 St. James Street, Barrington
IL 60010.
Contact the Muttart Conservatory in Edmonton, to request their
assistance in locating the soft cover book, or if they are carrying
similar information.
QUESTION #2
Hi Stan,
Can you also explain why I have two
roots coming out of my orchid
pot? What do I do with them? I have a new shoot out that will
produce flowers so it is very healthy. I really enjoy your Sunday
show, not only is it informative but also very entertaining.
Please respond by e-mail if possible
Thank you very much in advance!
Lucie
Lucie - All the roots should be on the
outside of the pot, as they are the anchors. Orchids feed and
breath through the leaves and stems.
Very few of the fleshy roots act as a conduit
for food or water.
Thanks for the comments.
|