Orchid afternoon. Odontocidium ‘Pacific Sunspots’ is an Oncidium-type orchid with long, cascading wands of golden-bronze flowers. This orchid was previously classified as Colmanara catatante, but was recently reclassified by the American Orchid Society so as to combine two intergeneric hybrids (Oncidium and Odontoglossum). 

Orchids will bloom for weeks in bright, filtered light (no direct sun). This particular orchid should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings, especially while in bloom. Its leaves have a natural drooping-appearance which is not an indication that it is dehydrated. Feed once a month with an orchid food that is specifically formulated for orchids. Be aware that orchids growing in a “bark medium” will require more nitrogen than those growing in a perlite, fiber, charcoal, and peat moss medium. Orchid roots will naturally grow outside the pots in search of humidity and light. If any of the roots take on a withered or desiccated look, they should be removed and discarded. 

Inside the conservatory: orchids, succulents and sedums, Oh my! There are plenty of house plants available from the nursery to create an indoor garden and adorn your home with a completely different palette of plant material than what you would find in an outdoor landscape. Put together a couple of terrariums in large glass vases, add an orchid or two from the floral shoppe, dress it all up with moss, stones, and cones ~ and the coffee table becomes a botanical treat. Just remember to group shade-loving plants together, and bright light plants together. Combine interesting foliage plants that complement one another. A terrarium also gives you something to tend, in case it’s too cold or too hot to go outside. 

Inside the conservatory: orchids, succulents and sedums, Oh my!

There are plenty of house plants available from the nursery to create an indoor garden and adorn your home with a completely different palette of plant material than what you would find in an outdoor landscape. Put together a couple of terrariums in large glass vases, add an orchid or two from the floral shoppe, dress it all up with moss, stones, and cones ~ and the coffee table becomes a botanical treat. Just remember to group shade-loving plants together, and bright light plants together. Combine interesting foliage plants that complement one another. A terrarium also gives you something to tend, in case it’s too cold or too hot to go outside.