Thursday, September 30, 2010

Oncidium Gower Ramsey 'Volcano Queen'
















I have not had great luck with growing this orchid.  It has been a couple of years since this one has bloomed last.  I think it was not getting quite enough light.  I also think it is a little too HOT in South Florida for this orchid.  While there are some hot growing orchids in its genetic background, there are also some that like intermediate temperatures and at least one that likes cooler temperatures.  The leaves on this orchid are very thin and mine tends to droop and curl up a little.  This is generally a sign of not quite enough water, but with the heat in South Florida it is hard to give it enough water and not rot the roots at the same time.

Despite the problems, it has started to bloom right at the end of September 2010.  It currently has six spikes and could have up to 70 or 80 blooms per spike.  Right now only the first spike has fully opened blooms, although there are some buds on this first spike to open yet.  I am hoping that by mid October all of the blooms will have opened.

Do you have experience with growing this orchid in South Florida?  If so, leave a comment on how you care for it.  Thanks and enjoy.

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