Blooming now (2009-11-12)

Vanda orchids are generally known for growing in warm conditions.  There are Vanda species, like V. coerulea and V. tessellata, that can be grown in cooler conditions.  But I don't normally think that Vanda hybrids can tolerate cool conditions.  Well, the orchid in the picture is Vanda Robert's Delight, which I have had for several years.  I admit that it is not in the best growing condition, but it does bloom for me off and on as it has now.  I believe that my extra care for these orchids this summer may be paying off.  I have some plans for this winter so that these more tender orchids are better protected during our coldest days.

More orchid show photos

Rhynchostylis gigantea x Vanda coerulea

Laelia anceps

Slc Precious Stones

Cymbidium Rocky Creek 'Dots'

Cymbidium Via del Playa 'The Globe'

Something blooming all the time ...

I guess it may actually be possible that I have some orchid in bloom almost every day of the year. It may be that the orchid in bloom may not be that exciting, but technically it's an orchid. When I came home from work today, I went out back to spray down the orchids. On looking around, I saw that I had several orchid that were in bloom and several more flower buds that probably will open in the next couple weeks. The orchids in bloom were: Miltonias, Stanhopea nigroviolacea, Epidendrum, Vanda Pachara Delight 'Pachara' (photo above from last year).

Vanda, anyone?

I've had some moderate success in growing Vandas. I know that many references recommend that Vandas should receive warm temperatures and high humidity. And generally, I would agree with the recommendation. However, I have found a few Vanda varieties that seem to tolerate cold winter temperatures. As you may know, Vanda coerulea originates from higher elevations and is often considered as a cool growing orchid. And my experience has been that Vandas with coerulea in their background are the orchids that can withstand our winters in Southern California. My one caution would be to make certain that the Vandas are watered often, especially if your water quality is poor. I had three coeruleas that were doing quite well and bloomed for me (see photo). But when my water quality became poor in combination with my infrequent watering (bad me!), the coeruleas declined and eventually died. So my lesson is to water often. I bought another coerulea at the Santa Barbara International Orchid Fair this past March from Andy's Orchids. It's doing fine so far.