Vanda Orchid

Vanda orchids need to be watered weekly. It is better to water the orchid thoroughly and then let it dry out completely between waterings. The roots of the orchid should not be left sitting in water. Instead, the best practice is to water it from the top and let the water run through and out the pot. This will help ensure that the water is evenly distributed and the roots are not surrounded by stagnant water. During the winter months water should be reduced to once a month or less, but increased during the summer months to every other week.

Vanda orchids require bright light to thrive indoors, with more direct sun being preferable. This means it should have at least 4 - 5 hours of direct sun per day. The best way to supply direct sun is via a south or west facing window. The leaves of Vanda orchids will turn a lighter green when the light source is insufficient, so a green thumb should monitor the leaves closely. When this happens, the orchid should be moved to an area that gets more direct light.

Vanda orchids need a temperature range of 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (13 to 24 degrees Celsius). To ensure that the orchid is getting the correct temperatures, keeping a thermometer indoors can be useful to monitor the temperatures. It is also ideally suited for a greenhouse environment if placing it outside is not an option.

Vanda orchids require an environment with high humidity levels, between 65% and 85%. An increase in humidity in a home can be accomplished by regularly misting the leaves with room temperature water and keeping the orchid pots in a tray filled with wet pebbles or gravel. In addition, adding a humidifier to a well-ventilated location can also help increase the humidity.

Orchids require specific soil for growing. Vanda orchids need soil that is free-draining and rich in organic matter. A mix of fir bark, sphagnum moss, coconut coir, and charcoal is a great option for Vanda orchids. This combination of ingredients allows for optimal nutrients and moisture retention.

Vanda orchids should be fertilized once a month during the summer months, and bi-monthly during the winter months. A low-nitrogen orchid fertilizer can be purchased in liquid or powder form. When applying fertilizers, use half the strength of what is recommended on the packaging to avoid burning the plant's roots. Spraying a foliar fertilizer may be beneficial in providing extra nutrients.

Insects and pests are a common threat to Vanda orchids. A few common insect infestations include thrips, mealybugs, and spider mites. Early detection is key in prevention. Regularly inspecting the orchid for signs of infestations, like discoloration of the leaves, white spots of the underside of the leaves, or yellowing is the best method for prevention. If infestations are noticed, an insecticidal soap spray that is free of phosphates or synthetics should be used to get rid of the pests. It is important to read the instructions carefully before using the spray and to be aware that multiple applications may be necessary.

It is best to repot the orchids on an annual basis when the roots are starting to fill the pot. During the repotting process, the roots should be carefully inspected and trimmed if there are any that have ceased to grow. Additionally, the pot and materials that are used should be carefully sanitized to prevent any diseases from entering the soil, and new soil should be used. When repotting, use an orchid bark mix, to provide adequate drainage.

Pruning Vanda orchids is not recommended, as it can shock the plant and it may take some time for the orchid to recover. Pruning nonflowering growth should only be attempted if the leaves are brown and dry. If this is the case, the pruning should only be done with sterilized pruning shears or scissors.

Mulching can be used to help retain humidity and moisture for Vanda orchids. Bark chips or sphagnum moss are good options. Adding mulch to the pot on top of the soil helps prevent the growth of weeds and is also aesthetically pleasing.

Vanda orchids can be propagated from cutting a few of the healthy and mature pseudobulbs. Care should be taken not to damage the plant while taking the cuttings, a sharp and sterilized blade should be used for a clean cut. The cuttings should be allowed to air dry for a few days in a warm, dry area away from direct sunlight. Once the cuttings have dried, they can be planted into their own pots with the appropriate orchid soil mix.

Vandas are naturally epiphytic, and therefore do not require any support. However, since Vanda orchids are large and require a lot of light, it is recommended to provide some form of support with strings, wires, or stakes that can provide added support to the plant instead of hanging from the ceiling.

Vanda orchids should be given a rest period in the fall and winter months. During this time, the orchid should not be repotted and the amount of watering should be reduced. The leaves should be allowed to dry some before watering and light should be reduced to an average of 4 - 5 hours per day, instead of the usual 7 - 8 hours.

Vanda orchid is not toxic for pets, however, it is best to keep pets away from the orchid as they may chew on the plants or cause other damage.