Vanda orchids
The Vanda is a specialty within the orchids. The beautiful flowers make this plant very popular and can often be found in flower arrangements. In addition, you can hang the Vanda from the ceiling, without using a root ball or potting soil!
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Temperature
Vandas do very well at normal room temperatures, between 18 and 27 degrees Celsius. At the right temperature and plenty of light, the plant will grow actively all year round.
light
A Vanda orchid needs a lot of light to bloom. Avoid direct sunlight in summer: this causes the leaves of the plant to turn pale and light green. Leaves can also shrivel. Too little light will cause the leaves to turn dark green. The plant will then no longer bloom. When the flower opens, it still has to color.
Extra light in the flowering stage ensures a beautiful bright flower colour.
After ten days the flowers have grown to their full size.
Water
Fill the vase with water twice a week during sunny, warm periods. In cloudy and cool periods this only needs to be done once a week.
When filling the vase with water, the roots absorb the water like a sponge. After about thirty minutes no more air bubbles appear and the roots are saturated. Then remove the remaining water from the vase. The plant has now stored enough water in the roots for a number of days.
Fertilization
Use a regular, balanced fertilizer for the Vanda. This is available at florist or garden center. Add the fertilizer to the water once a month.
New bloom
When the flowers have finished blooming, the flower branch can be cut out. After a few months, depending on the amount of daylight present, a new branch will appear. Place the plant in a cool place for a few weeks to encourage re-flowering. This place should never be colder than 15 degrees Celsius.
In the meantime, the Vanda should receive normal water: the plant does not have a rest period like other orchid species. It is not necessary to put it away in the dark: leave the plant in a light place.