Vanda orchids originate in Thailand, India, Vietnam, Laos, Sumatra and the Philippines. Vanda flowers are showy and can range in diameter from 1 to 6 inches.  They come in a kaleidoscope of colors, ranging from Lavender-blue red. The flower spike, or inflorescence, emerges from the leaf axils. Leaves come forth alternately from the main stem.  These orchids grow well in warmer climates and in higher light situations than most orchids. In climates where the winter is cold, the plants must be overwintered indoors.

Light

Vandas enjoy full morning sun. They need to be shaded from the intense afternoon sun, especially in the summer.  These plant do best when grown outside, however they can do well inside during the cold winter months.

The leaves of this orchid will be light green if it is receiving the correct amount of light.  If the leaves are dark green, this is an indication of too little light. A southern or southwestern exposure is ideal.

Temperature

Vandas like night time temperatures that range from 60-70 F. During the day, they like ranging between 75-80 degrees F. Vandas can withstand temperatures of 90-95 degree F.

It is important to remember that if the temperatures get high you should increase the humidity, water and air circulation around the plant. Warm, humid days are ideal for the growth of vandas.

Water

This element is the one that causes the most confusion among orchid lovers. Vandas should be misted heavily at the roots during the day.  Vandas do  not have water storage bulbs; therefore they need to be watered on a daily basis during the summer. During the winter, when growth has slowed down, water less.

The quality of the water used is also of some importance.  Orchids prefer rainwater; they really do not like water that has a lot of chemicals, such as chlorine or salt from water softeners. If your water is heavily treated, you might consider buying some distilled or purified water, although catching your own rainwater can be fun and will give you a great sense of satisfaction!

 

Water your plant early in the day and at the roots of the plant to prevent moisture from settling on the plant over night.  This will lead to crown rot and other diseases.

Humidity

Vandas should have about 80% humidity.  This element works in conjunction with the other care elements mentioned. On days of high humidity make sure there is good air circulation around your plants.

Feeding

Vandas flower best and are at their healthiest when fertilized on a regular basis especially during their active growing season.  Use a well balanced formulation such as 10-10-10 or a ratio that is similar. These numbers correspond to the ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in the fertilizer.  These elements are responsible for vegetative growth, flower development and flower production, respectively.

 

You may fertilize once a week during watering given you use the fertilizer at one quarter of the strength. Use a high phosphorus fertilizer (10-30-20) once a month to encourage flowering.

Repotting

Vandas should only be repotted when absolutely necessary. Their root systems are rather fragile and can be damaged easily. If the plant has out grown the basket or the slab, place the basket into the larger basket.  In the same way you may attach the smaller slab onto the larger slab without disturbing the plant.

 

Allow for high humidity and shaded conditions after repotting.  Mist as needed.  Regular watering should resume after you see new roots forming.

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