beginner orchid
BRASSAVOLA
Lady of the Night
BRASSAVOLA
Brassavola (bra-sah-VOH-luh), also called lady of the night for its evening perfume-like fragrance. These are great beginner orchids that perform well mounted in a slatted basket or in a pot grown near a windowsill.
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TEMPERATURE
Warm, 70°-80° F / 21-26.7 C to intermediate temperatures 60°-65° F / 13°-15.6° C (minimum temperature).
LIGHT
Brassavola orchids need very bright light 2500 to 3600 fc) and can be grown on a south-facing windowsill or under lights – growing best if summered outdoors, or, in a greenhouse.
HUMIDITY
These orchids will tolerate lower humidity (30-50%). Though higher levels (70%) are better for the orchid, aren’t so good for your home. Use a humidifier if necessary and a fan set to low to provide air movement. Home growers: remember 50% is the maximum recommendation. Easily track humidity levels with a humidistat.
WATER
Water enough so that the leaves and roots remain firm and plump. Be especially mindful of watering in the spring when new roots and leaves are growing. Brassavolas require more frequent watering during warm weather and slightly less often in the winter.
FERTILIZATION
Apply a balanced fertilizer, 1/4 strength, 3 out of 4 weeks. On the fourth week, flood potting media to rinse fertilizer salts. If the orchid is potted in bark, use a high nitrogen fertilizer (9-3-6).
POTTING & MEDIA
Brassavolas grow well on mounts (cork or tree branches work best), in slatted baskets (6-8-inch), and in pots (3-inch). Recommended potting mixes are medium-grade fir bark, horticulture charcoal, lava, and pumice. Potted Brassavolas should dry completely between watering.
TIPS
Divide mature Brassavolas in spring when new roots appear.
The popular Brassavola nodosa is a great introductory species.
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This easy-to-grow orchid smells amazing!
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Emily
perfect beginner orchid