South American Quick Picks Genera L-M

Description

New World Orchids proudly presents its latest addition to its diverse collection: recently acquired South American orchids. These plants are mature and presented either potted or mounted as appropriate. From the lush rainforests of South America, these exotic beauties will mesmerize any orchid enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a novice orchid lover, these specimens offer a rare opportunity to bring a piece of South America’s natural wonders into your home. Explore the enchanting world of South American orchids at New World Orchids and elevate your botanical experience to new heights.

VERY limited quantities.  When they’re gone, they are gone.

Lepanthes, a captivating genus of miniature orchids, enchants enthusiasts with its diminutive stature and intricate blooms. These fascinating orchids, native to the cloud forests of Central and South America, offer a unique allure to indoor growers.

Growing Requirements:
1. Light: Lepanthes thrives in moderate to bright indirect light. Position them near east or west-facing windows to ensure they receive ample but filtered sunlight. Avoid direct exposure to intense sunlight, as it may scorch their delicate foliage.
2. Temperature: Mimic the cool to intermediate temperatures found in their natural habitat. Ideally, maintain temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Adequate airflow is essential to prevent stagnant conditions.  Intermediate growing varieties are fine at temperatures into the 80’s.
3. Humidity: Lepanthes requires high humidity levels, akin to their cloud forest origins. Maintain humidity levels around 60-80% by employing humidifiers, grouping plants together, or placing trays filled with water and pebbles beneath the pots to create a microclimate.
4. Watering: Keep the potting medium consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of the substrate feels dry, ensuring excess water drains freely from the pot. Avoid letting the roots dry out completely.
5. Potting Medium: These guys are typically grown mounted and will arrive already mounted for you.

Masdevallia, a genus renowned for its striking, often intricate blooms, is a must-have for lovers of striking orchid flowers.  While many are put-off by its reputation for being difficult to grow in the home, following some basic requirements will pay off in some of the most beautiful blooms in the orchid world.

Growing Requirements:

Light: Masdevallias prefer moderate, indirect light. Place them near an east or west-facing window where they can receive gentle morning or afternoon sunlight. Protect them from direct exposure to harsh midday sun, as it can scorch their delicate foliage.

Temperature: These orchids thrive in cool to intermediate temperatures, typically ranging between 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C) during the day. Nighttime temperatures can be slightly cooler.  At higher temperatures, keep them in lower light.

Humidity: Masdevallias require high humidity levels to thrive. Maintain humidity levels between 60% to 80% to mimic their natural habitat. Consider using a humidifier or placing a tray filled with water and pebbles beneath the orchid pot to create a humid microclimate.

Watering: Keep the potting medium consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water Masdevallias thoroughly when the top layer of the potting mix feels dry to the touch, typically every 5 to 7 days. Avoid letting the roots sit in standing water, as this can lead to rot.  When temperatures are high, allow the media to dry MORE (yes, more) to avoid rot.

Potting Medium: Use high quality moss (my preference) or a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for orchids, such as a blend of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. Repot Masdevallias every 1 to 2 years to refresh the potting medium and accommodate their growing roots.

Air Circulation: Provide adequate air circulation around Masdevallias to prevent stagnant air and discourage fungal growth. Gentle air movement helps to mimic their natural habitat and prevents moisture from accumulating on the foliage.

With careful attention to these growing requirements—appropriate light, temperature, humidity, watering, and potting medium—home growers can cultivate healthy and thriving Lepanthes and Masdevallias, adding a touch of exotic beauty to their indoor spaces. Explore the enchanting world of Lepanthes at New World Orchids and embark on a journey into the captivating realm of miniature orchids.