Growing vandas in pots

Vanda orchids are native to tropical sections of Asia and thrive in warm, moist and well-lit environments. Growing a vanda orchid is all about keeping the roots healthy. Its roots are visible and grow outside and all around whatever container it is placed in. You can grow vanda orchids in pots filled with a course medium and have the beauty of red, blue, yellow and orange orchids available for weeks at a time.

1. Purchase a vanda orchid free of visible problems such as wilted or discolored leaves and blossoms.
2. Place the existing vanda orchid container inside the center of a somewhat larger clay pot. If the roots are growing on the outside of the existing container, mist with water to make them more pliable so you will not damage the roots as you put the plant into its new container. Gently fill with a medium such as fir bark in large chunks of 3.5 cm (1.4 inches). These larger chunks are needed to support potted orchids.
3. Place the pot in a humid location that receives good air circulation and has a lot of light. If your vanda orchid develops floppy leaves, it is an indication that more light is needed. If redness appears on the leaves, it may be getting too much light.
4. Maintain a nighttime temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees F and no more than 95 degrees F during the day.
5. Keep the humidity level at 80 percent. If a humidifier is not available, you can put the potted orchid on top of a shallow tray filled with equal parts gravel and water. Use a humidity meter for accuracy, and replace the water as it evaporates.
6. Water your vanda orchid daily, competely soaking the medium. Allow the medium to dry out in between waterings. You may need to experiment with the amount of water you supply your vanda orchid to achieve the correct daily balance. Keep in mind that warmer weather requires more frequent watering, and cooler weather requires less. Closely monitor the moisture content of the medium during temperature fluctuations.
7. Fertilize the orchid once a week with all-purpose houseplant fertilizer (20-20-20) during the summer and once every two weeks during the winter. However, for the orchid, use one-fourth of the amount recommended for regular houseplants at the same time you water. Refer to the fertilizer manufacturer's application guidelines.