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Growing Orchids: August in St. Augustine
Based on Robert Scully's articles, courtesy of AOS
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General Orchid Growing Tips
August is the hottest month so be prepared to work diligently to ensure sufficient humidity and air circulation. Spray water on the floor, benches and outer surface of clay pots one or more times every day during the hottest times. Summer's higher temperatures, brighter light conditions and longer days induce orchids to manufacture the greatest amounts of carbohydrates when provided with enough fertilizer. The warm temperatures also cause insect populations to increase. Observe your plants carefully and spray for both insects and disease when first noticed. |
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Cattleyas
Growers should be enjoying many of the advance yellow hybrids from C. dowiana. Some of the large-flowered hybrids of C. bicolor may open this month. Continue to use a dilute fertilizer (1/8th strength) on cattleyas with every watering. As new growths mature, tie them up carefully to promote upright development of the pseudobulbs. |
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Cymbidiums
Use high potassium fertilizer in late August. The potassium level should be at 250 to 300 ppm potassium (K) and zero to very low N. Do this only two times at a two week interval. Wait a month then resume your normal fertilizer schedule. |
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Dendrobiums
The nobile-type dendrobiums are popular though some growers find them difficult to flower. In order to promote the gradual shift from active growth to the flowering cycle, start withholding nitrogen now. Some growers report using a bloom booster this time of year on winter dormant plants helps prepare them for their dormancy. |
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Phalaenopsis
Current high temperatures are particularly stressful for phalaenopsis. Excess heat and humidity promote bacterial Pseudomonas infections on the fleshy leaves. Keep light levels subdued, promote sufficient air circulation and do not splash water from one plant onto another. Keep using a dilute (1/8th strength) fertilizer with every watering to develop the strongest roots and largest leaves prior to the winter flowering season. |
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Vandas
Summer growing conditions are ideal for Aerides, Ascocentrum, Rhynchostylis and Vanda hybrids. Feed aggressively and provide high humidity. Try placing a rubber-topped plastic flower tube containing stale beer on a rigid, emerging new root. Rather quickly, the root will consume the beer and utilize its carbohydrate content, producing some remarkable growth responses. |
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