MASDEVALLIAS

Masdevallias are sometimes thought of as the orchids of Machu Pichu high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Masdevallias are endemic to the high altitude cloud forests of western equatorial South America. They thrive in the cool and constantly wet and deeply shaded forest. They are perfect for many places in the San Francisco Bay Area and will thrive outside here year round.

LIGHT: Masdevallias grow under the dense cloud forest canopy. Masdavallias do not require high light to bloom. Many will tolerate bright light and their leaves will redden.

TEMPERATURE: Masdevallias are cool growers. Many will handle temperatures down to the high thirties. They like a chill. Masdevallias DO NOT like temperatures above 75-80. Their leaves will blacken at the tips. Keep them in the cool San Francisco fog.

WATER: it must be very clean and pure, as will the roots can burn easily. Keep them moist at all times, do not let them dry out as the new leaves will crinkle as they form.

FERTILIZER: a very dilute strength should be fed weekly of a even balanced (20-20-20) Fertilizer.

POTTING: Repot the plants on a yearly basis; they do not like soiled mixes. A mix of Fine fir bark (consisting of fine bark, perlite, peat or coir). Keep the plants in close or tight fitting pots do best.

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