Zygopetalum

Family. Orchidaceae.

Origin. South America.

Description. The genus " Zygopetalum " includes about 40 species of epiphytic or terrestrial orchids with ovoid pseudobulbs, from the upper part of which rise narrow, belt-shaped dark green leaves up to 60 cm long. Tall peduncles appearing from the base of the pseudobulb bear several fragrant flowers at the top. The flower petals are painted in a wide variety of shades of burgundy, brown, green or purple, the large lip has purple and pink spots and stripes. During the flowering period, an aroma reminiscent of narcissus flowers spreads throughout the entire room.

Height. Up to 3 feet (90 cm). 

Сare at home

Transplant 

Young bushes are replanted every 2 years. Adult specimens can be replanted every 3 years after flowering.

Flowering time

Winter, flowering period is long - from 1 to 3 months. 

Soil

Grows well in ready-made orchid mixtures with a slightly acidic pH. Suitable soil based on pine bark, perlite, coarse sand, sphagnum moss and peat. 

Watering 

Try to keep the soil evenly moist throughout the growing season, but remove excess water from the pan. It is better to use bottom watering by immersing the orchid pot in water for several hours. In winter, the frequency of watering is reduced. 

Diseases and pests 

Zygopetalum is quite resistant to fungal and viral diseases.  The plant may rot if water stagnates at the roots.

The flower can be attacked by mealybugs, aphids and whiteflies, spider mites and scale insects. If you take an orchid out into the garden for the summer, it may be attacked by snails and slugs.

Reproduction 

By division during transplantation, each division should have 2 - 4 pseudobulbs with roots. Remove dead or damaged roots that may encourage the development of root rot. 

How to care

After flowering, orchids are placed in partial shade and cool, watering is reduced for several weeks - the plant must rest and grow an additional root system.

Containment temperature

Moderately warm content. It is advisable to arrange a difference in night and day temperatures for abundant flowering, for example, the temperature during the day should be 21 - 24 ° C, at night - 16 - 18 ° C.

Lighting

Direct sunlight on the leaves in the morning and evening hours is acceptable, during the day, arrange shading. This genus needs very good lighting. In the autumn and winter months, additional illumination with fluorescent lamps is possible. If the bush does not have enough light, it abundantly grows green mass to the detriment of flowering. During flowering, zygopetalum requires more shading to increase the lifespan of the buds.

Fertilizer 

Use a high-nitrogen fertilizer during active growth and a low-nitrogen fertilizer during flowering. Feed 2 times a month with a solution of half strength. 

Spraying

Orchids prefer to be kept in high humidity - at least 50%. Place the flower pot on a tray with wet pebbles or use a room humidifier. Spray the leaves with soft water at room temperature, trying not to get it on the buds and flowers.