Nurturing baby orchids =)

[tom499]

I bought another masd. because it was going very cheap in a pet shop. It was being sold as a plant to use in terrariums with reptiles.

I've included a picture of it, and the picture of another masd. so everyone can see how it should look

I've "borrowed" my parents seedling propagator thing, a clear box with heating, so i can give it a nice temperature and very high humidity, although i have to take off the lid at some point during the day to get some air movement.

ok so my question is, its got alot of black dead stem ends on it, should i cut those right right back to the base? also, is there anything special i should do with baby orchids? i have never had one this small, i will give it a temp and humidity boost, but i wondered if i missed anything.

thanks in advance

My happy Masd.



My baby Masd.

[jerrymeola]

There is slightly more here then just a baby plant and it might be good to make a distinction at this time.

In general, baby plants like to be more moist than adults of the same family and can do well in less light until flowering time. But like all generalities there are as many exceptions.

Your baby looks a little stressed and any new plant is stressed again when bought and moved to your home.

Therefor, while generally I say more moisture, I want to make the clarification that with new plants we should err on the side of too little water rather than risk too much at least for the first month or two while it gets established. When you see new roots or ne leaves it is established.

Your pot is big for the plant but not too big (babies can go directly to 4 inch pots from 2 inch where normally we only go 1 inch per re-potting). It will take longer to dry because the roots do not fill the pot. Just realize that this is happening and water gently.

Now more specific to your plant. The care you have outlined for it should do very well. The heated box and humidity, while I do not feel is necessary, will certainly do well for the plant. Just keep in mind the box will slow water evaporation requiring less water from you.

[tom499]

i have put some stones in the bottom of the pot, and removed some of the moss, so it will have better drainage. I read masd. like humidity of 70-90% although older plants can grow at lower humidity, so i will likely keep it in there for a long time until i can get an aqurium tank of some sort.

Thanks for the tips jerrymeola, i shall monitor its progress carfully