Doritaenopsis

Origin. Orchidaceae.

Origin. Hybrid of Phalaenopsis and Doritis. 

Description. Doritaenopsis are orchids with large, oval, green, leathery leaves that form a rosette. The peduncles are tall, bearing long clusters of flowers that open sequentially, starting from the bottom. Outwardly similar to phalaenopsis, but has a more modest size in comparison with it, a larger number of leaves and flowers.

Height. Up to 60 cm.

Home care

Temperature conditions

The ideal maintenance temperature for doritaenopsis is 25 - 30 ° C during the daytime and 18 - 25 ° C at night.

Lighting

Moderate lighting, no direct sunlight on summer days. It grows well under artificial light, for example in autumn and winter, when there is not enough sun. 

Care

Provide these orchids with a humid environment.

Substrate

Based on sphagnum moss, coconut fiber, crushed pine bark. To improve drainage, add perlite or coarse river sand.

Feeding

It is better to feed doritaenopsis with fertilizer in half the concentration every 2 weeks. Fertilizer that is too concentrated can seriously damage the plant's roots. 

Purpose

Provide a bright spot, some direct morning or evening sun and plenty of water to enjoy abundant, long-lasting blooms. Good for cutting.

Flowering time

End of winter - spring, flowering is very long - up to 1 month. With proper care, repeated flowering is possible throughout the year.

Air humidity

To increase humidity, you can place the plant pot on a tray with wet pebbles or use a room humidifier. It is recommended to spray only with soft water at room temperature, being careful not to get it on the flowers and buds.

Watering

Water the doritaenopsis with soft water; the substrate should dry almost completely before the next watering. In winter, reduce watering. 

Transfer

In spring, if necessary, change the soil for fresh substrate. Do not replant flowering bushes. Adult specimens are replanted every 2-3 years.

Reproduction

As a rule, it is propagated by seeds, but suckers, which often appear at the base of the inflorescence, can be used for propagation. 

Pests and diseases

Viral diseases characteristic of orchids.

Bushes can be attacked by mealybugs and red spider mites, scale insects, thrips, nematodes, aphids and whiteflies.

Hydroponics

Quite suitable for growing hydroponically.