ONCIDIUM

Warm Growing Types

Oncidiums are known by their common name, the Dancing Lady orchid, for their dance skirt-like lips. This charming group of plants includes plants from many types of environments. The conditions can range from very hot and dry to less extreme, depending on the species.

LIGHT can vary from bright to almost full sun. Provide 2,000 to 4,000 foot candles. The softer leaf varieties will take less light; the thicker harder leaf plants (these include the “mule ear” types) will take more light. Home growers will want to use ease, south or west windows to grow Oncidiums.

TEMPERATURES Most Oncidiums fall into the intermediate to warm temperature range. Nights are 55 to 60 degrees. Day temperatures are from 80 to 85 degrees F.

WATER requirements vary depending on the species. Plants with thin leaves and roots will need more consistent watering. When the media is dry halfway through the pot, water. Plants with thick leaves and large fleshy roots need less water. They should go nearly dry between waterings. Be especially careful during the winter months not to overwater mule ear types.

FERTILIZER should be used ever time you water your Oncidiums. Use a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) at ½ strength in the summer growth phase. Use the same fertilizer at ¼ strength during the winter, non growth phase. Regular monthly to every 6 weeks plain water flushings will prevent salt build-ups.

HUMIDITY should be between 40 to 60%. Many Oncidiums require less humidity than other orchids, making them ideal for home growers. Use of humidity trays partially filled with gravel and water is excellent for home use.

REPOTTING should be done when the plants are making new growths. Use a fine bark mix (fine bark, perlite and charcoal). If you divide your Oncidium, give each division at least 4 growths. Snuggle the old growth next to the rim of the pot to allow the new growths plenty of room. Provide plenty of humidity and less water to recent repots to encourage new growths to form.

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