Zygopetalum Orchid Care

Water

• Although the Zygopetalum orchid likes well-drained, moist soil, it does not tolerate soggy soil. According to Brennan's Orchids, if your orchid is growing in moss, water it when the top inch is dry. If your plant is growing in bark, let the bark dry out about one-third of the way down before watering. Water the plant well, either soaking the pot in a container of water or adding water until it is coming out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. In dry climates, orchids benefit from a humidifier placed nearby to add to the room's humidity.

Light

• Zygopetalum orchids need indirect, bright light. Placing them near an east or west facing window is best. Do not allow the orchids to receive direct light as this will burn their leaves and your orchid will suffer. According to Beautiful Orchids, a dark green leaf means your Zygopetalum orchid need more light, a slightly yellow cast to the leaf indicates your orchid has the amount of sun it needs. According to Landscape and Garden, Zygopetalum orchids can benefit from being hung outdoors in dappled shade during the summer months.

Temperature

• According to Beautiful Orchid, Zygopetalum orchids tolerate a wide range of temperatures once they are acclimated to a location. For best results, Brennans Orchids warns that you should keep the temperature around your orchid to below 85 degrees F but well above freezing.

Fertilizer

• According to Beautiful Orchids, Zygopetalum orchids need a high nitrogen, water soluble fertilizer during active growth from February until July and a lower nitrogen fertilizer from August to January. Feed your orchid 1 tsp. of fertilizer per gallon of water every month.

Soil

• Zygopetalum orchids don't grow in regular potting soil. They need a light medium where the roots receive air circulation. Using a combination of medium-grade bark and perlite works will for this plant. Coconut fiber or Osmunda is also a good choice. The soil medium should be slightly acidic and loose.

Re-potting

• According to Brennan's Orchids, the Zygopetalum orchid should be re-potted every one to two years. Select a pot that is about 1 inch larger than the orchid's previous pot and re-pot it using your preferred medium, such as medium to fine grain bark or moss. Moisten the medium before re-potting your orchid and don't pack too tightly to allow for adequate air and water circulation to the the orchid's roots.