MILO BALI
Email: stephen@adelaideorchids.com
Sarcochilus
Orchids
They are epiphytic orchids that do not grow well in soil. In general
Australian Natives grow best in pots
that provide very good drainage. Use a coarse growing medium such as
bark. Sarcochilus can also be grown mounted. Use a bark block, cork or a tree
fern slab. Initially mount the plant and tie with fishing line. Plants that are
mounted require more careful attention to watering as they will dry out a lot
quicker than those in pots, due to the increase in air movement around the root
system.
Potting Mixtures : Orchids in general like to be kept moist and
“Aussie Dendrobium’s” are no exception . Always maintain your potting mixture
is clean free from fungus to obtain the best growing results. A suggestion
would be to purchase from a successful grower or a reputable nursery, and
always observe your plants are in a free draining orchid medium.
Sarcochilus grow well in a position which receives approximately 50 –
70% shade. Provide some humidity during hot months.
Re-Potting Time : The best time to repot is immediately after
flowering. Do not over pot the plants. They do respond well being planted on
into slightly larger pots. The plants will become pot bound quickly and will
give a much better flowering.
Fertilising : Sarcochilus require only very light
fertilising throughout the year, and when applied it is recommended to apply at
a very weak solution. (half strength) during active growth. Over fertilising
will result in less flowers and soft foliage. One very simple additive for
success with Sarcochilus is lots of natural fresh air blowing over the plants.
Flowering Season : Flowering season begins in late Spring. Sarcochilus
plants flower on progressive racemes that will continue to extend and produce
more new blooms during a 2 month period.
New shoots development from the base of other mature growths. No bulbs
are produced.
Enjoy your Sarcochilus Orchids, as they are hardy easy to grow and
flower when many other orchids have finished during late Spring. Flowers hold
for several weeks and the plants can be grown into magnificent pot plants if
regularly potted on into a slightly larger pot each time. Eventually forming a
delightful potted specimen much to be admired in the greenhouse or on the
show-bench by fellow orchid friends.