Eyelash Orchid

Eyelash Orchids require more attention when it comes to watering than most other orchids. During the growing season, water your orchid every 1-2 weeks and make sure the top of the potting mix is always moist. During the cooler winter months, reduce watering to every 2-3 weeks. You can tell if you need to water them by testing the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water again.

These orchids prefer bright, indirect or filtered sunlight. You can keep yours outdoors during warm weather, but make sure to keep it away from direct, harsh sunlight. You can also place it near a south-facing window indoors. Keep it away from drafts and excessive heat or cold.

These orchids prefer temperatures of 70-90°F (21-32°C) during the day and 55-75°F (13-24°C) at night. Ideal humidity is between 50-80% with moderate air circulation. Too low temperature and humidity can cause the plant to go dormant and prevent flower buds from forming.

Eyelash orchids require high humidity to grow and thrive. The best way to ensure high humidity is by grouping orchids together or by placing a water-filled tray near your orchid and refilling regularly. If you are unable to keep humidity between 50-80%, you can also mist the orchid regularly with distilled water.

Eyelash Orchids require a soil that is moist but well-draining. A specially designed orchid mix is best, as it is made specifically for orchids and has the proper drainage and aeration. A mixture of fir bark, charcoal, charcoal, perlite, and sphagnum works best. If your potting mix becomes too dry, add some peat moss or sand to create a more damp soil.

Eyelash Orchids require fertilization during the growing season. It's best to use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that is specially formulated for orchids. Make sure to dilute it to half the suggested strength and apply it every two weeks. During the winter months, reduce fertilization to once per month.

The most common pests associated with these orchids are aphids, mealybugs, scale, thrips, and spider mites. To get rid of these pests, first try washing the orchid with a strong spray of tepid water. If this doesn't work, you can use an insecticidal soap which is safe for orchids. These can be found in garden centers or home improvement stores. Make sure to keep an eye on your orchid and check for pests regularly, as they can do serious damage and even kill the orchid if not caught in time.

Eyelash Orchids require repotting every year or two, preferably at the beginning of the growing season. When choosing a new pot, make sure to select one that is 2 inches wider than the current one. Make sure to use a well-draining orchid mix, that is mostly bark. Repot your orchid in either a hanging basket or pot with drainage holes. Place some moss, bamboo skewers, or wood on the sides for the roots to cling onto.

Pruning is an important part of keeping your Eyelash Orchid healthy. After the flowering period, cut off the flower stems and allow the plant to go dormant. You can also cut off any dead or damaged leaves or stems. Always use sharp, clean pruning blades and cut at an angle and do not leave a stub.

Mulching your Eyelash Orchid is helpful in keeping the potting mix evenly moist. You can use materials such as moss, sphagnum peat, dry leaves, or compost. Lay it around the base of your orchid and will help keep the moisture and temperature consistent.

Eyelash Orchids can be propagated either by division or from seed. Division is the easiest way to propagate them and can be done by carefully separating the pseudobulbs once they have grown to a sufficient size. To propagate from seed, you will need to create a sterile seed tray with a mix of perlite, vermiculite, and orchid bark. Place the tray in a place that receives indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist but well-draining. The seeds will usually take several weeks to germinate, but once they do, you should be able to transfer them to individual pots to grow.

These orchids have delicate roots that need to be supported properly. You can use materials such as small sticks, bamboo skewers, or pieces of wood. Place them around the base of the plant and make sure they are secure so that the roots can attach and climb up them.

Unlike other orchids, Eyelash Orchids don't have a rest period and can flower year-round. During the winter months, however, their growth will slow down and the blooms will be less frequent. If they become leggy or overgrown during this time, prune them and they will grow back strong and healthy.

Eyelash Orchids are not toxic to most pets when ingested, but it is a good idea to keep all pets away from orchids just to be safe. If the pet has an allergic reaction to the plant, consult a veterinarian immediately.