Cultivation methods and precautions of Oncidium

Oncidium, also known as the auspicious orchid, dancing orchid or dancing lady orchid, is a popular orchid . Although it is grown in both the north and south, it is more common in the south. Many flower lovers like to grow Oncidium at home, but are often confused because it is difficult for it to bloom. In fact, as long as you master the correct maintenance methods, Oncidium can thrive. Let’s learn together the cultivation methods and precautions of Wenxinlan below.

1. Cultivation method of Oncidium

1. Soil selection

Oncidium requires fertile, loose and breathable soil. It is recommended to make your own substrate, which can be mixed with fine fern soil, peat soil, charcoal, vermiculite and broken bricks and stones in a ratio of 4:1:2:2:1. Before planting, spread a layer of crushed tiles at the bottom of the pot to enhance drainage and air permeability.

2. Lighting management

Oncidium likes plenty of diffuse light, but should avoid direct sunlight. During the growing period, it should be placed in a diffuse light environment, with about 70% shading in summer and about 45% shading in spring and autumn. In winter, Oncidium should be placed in a sunny place indoors to ensure that it can receive sufficient diffuse light.

3. Temperature control

Different varieties of Oncidium have slightly different temperature requirements. The suitable temperature for thick-leaf varieties is 18-25 degrees Celsius, and the minimum should not be lower than 12 degrees Celsius; the suitable temperature for thin-leaf varieties is 10-22 degrees Celsius, and the minimum should not be lower than 8 degrees Celsius.

4. Water supply

Oncidium prefers a humid environment, and the air humidity should be kept at around 70% during the growing period. When watering, the soil in the pot should be kept half dry and half wet. During the peak growing season, water the plant once in the morning and evening each day with a thin layer of water. In winter, the frequency of watering should be reduced appropriately.

5. Fertilization strategy

When planting, sufficient base fertilizer should be applied to the bottom of the pot, such as decomposed bone meal and coconut shells. Apply special flower fertilizer once a month during the seedling stage, and supplement calcium fertilizer appropriately.

2. Precautions

1. Change the soil regularly

The potting soil of Oncidium should be changed every two or three years. When changing the pot, the old soil should be poured out and replaced with newly prepared nutrient soil. At the same time, trim off rotten roots and dead branches, and make sure the soil is disinfected before replanting.

2. Keep ventilation

Good air circulation is essential to the health of your Oncidium. Ventilation and shading should be strengthened during the growing season, especially in spring and summer, and windows should be opened frequently for ventilation. In winter, you should also pay attention to ventilation to keep the indoor air circulating and reduce the occurrence of diseases and pests.

The above are the planting methods and precautions for Oncidium. By doing a good job of daily maintenance, you can better care for Oncidium, allowing it to thrive and bloom beautiful flowers.