How do I care for my zygopetalum?
Zygopetalum is native to South America. In the wild, it grows on tree trunks, rocks, and on the ground between leaves. Zygopetalum easily develops new shoots. This makes for an abundantly flowering plant, making it a showpiece in the living room with its blue, red or green flowers. Some of the species produce a sweet scent when flowering. In comparison to other orchids, Zygopetalum does well with abundant watering.
light
In a bright, but shaded spot, but no direct sunlight.
temperature
Zygopetalum loves a temperature between 15 and 18 degrees Celcius.
water
This orchid should not be overwatered. It is sufficient to water it once every seven to nine days. Water zygopetalum only once its soil is almost dry.
Fertiliser orchid
- Twice per month, feed zygopetalum our special orchid fertiliser ‘Groei en bloei’. Dosage: one level teaspoon per one litre of water. In February, May, and September, sprinkle one level teaspoon of ‘Grondverbeteraar’ (soil improver) once over the potting mix. The orchid does not require fertiliser from November up to and including January. Both products are sold in our shop.
Spraying flower buds
The humidity in a home can be low during the winter and summer months. Spray the smallest buds daily to prevent them from drying out and not flowering.
soil
It is important to replant oncidium once every three to four years in orchid potting mix. For zygopetalum, Pantropica has put together a well-aerated mix of bark, coco, and peat. This mix is available at our shop. Please do this if the orchid has finished flowering (preferably in springtime).
After flowering
Please do cut off the stem at the bottom if it is past flowering. The orchid will generate another stem from a new shoot. This will take approximately eight to twelve months.