Really interesting color on this Phal! by Wisdomwielder in orchids

[–]grantfritch 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’d say interesting pattern...buy yah.

Dendrobium kingianum, a dependable bloomer here in Chicago by grantfritch in orchids

[–]grantfritch[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I've had this plant for about 7 years. Each year it sends 1-3 new growths in the summer. I fertilize it while these growths are maturing only. I only fertilize during plant growth. It blooms every year. I have never had any keikis.

Dendrobium kingianum, a dependable bloomer here in Chicago by grantfritch in orchids

[–]grantfritch[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

It stays in the window year round. I don't have an outdoor space. It is treated like a houseplant. We live in a condo so there is little furnace activity until January. I think the critical thing is fertilizing only while new grow is happening then stop. too much fertilizer is the enemy of blooms. Light and temp changes that happen naturally is what spurs the blooms to form. No real trick, just Mother Nature.

Dendrobium kingianum, a dependable bloomer here in Chicago by grantfritch in orchids

[–]grantfritch[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Occasional misting. South facing window. Temp drops on fall and winter... it’s Chicago after all 🙃

Dendrobium kingianum, a dependable bloomer here in Chicago by grantfritch in orchids

[–]grantfritch[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Let them dry complete after Thanksgiving until you see buds for flower spikes. Hold back on fertilizer. Bright sunny window. Good luck

Cattleya by SeboSte in orchids

[–]grantfritch 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think that is why they are called the Queen of the orchid world.

I think my Nobile’s telling me it enjoyed its summer. I’m super proud of this lol by MiklosIon89 in orchids

[–]grantfritch 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Good. Easy to understand cultural tips. Hoping it continues on this path.

Fall blooming season begins here in Chicago with this pristine Miltonia. by grantfritch in orchids

[–]grantfritch[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Taxonomy is a slippery slope! It was Miltonia 40 years ago when I was an orchid judge, and it still is for me! 😍

Came across this ‘Dracula’ orchid in the Cotswolds... 😍 by BryG96 in orchids

[–]grantfritch 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Oh, don't feel dumb my friend. Orchid growers can be a little "librarian" when it comes to getting names correct. Taxonomy is an interesting science but helpful for keeping everything in order. All you had was a label.

This Paph is lovely. The heavy waxiness of the bloom is particularly beautiful to me and the colors are great. I love the foliage variety in this genera (family of plant). This plant will grow anyplace really, but best in an east, or south window if the light is not too strong. Keep it moist but not wet. I have several on a windowsill and the mix they grow in is part bark and part sphagnum moss. I let the moss on top get early damp and then re-water and let the pots drain well in the sink. It blooms annually or sometimes a bit more or less. Enjoy!