Help with orchid.

[kinnika]

I found this forum just in time..A friend of mine is moving and she brought me over a Miltoniopsis ( Monterey Bay) as she knows I have orchids. The problem is that I have never had a miltoniopsis in my life and don't know anything about them..This orchid is obviously in trouble so I hope you can help me. Some of the leaves are corrugated like an accordian ( I think this is from lack of water) and the leaves are very pale green. Is this colour normal? The root system is very good so that isn't a problem. She had it under lights so I don't understand the paleness. I also know she fertilized it regularly with Orchid Fertilizer, the same I use. So if anyone can offer some advise I would really appreciate it..

[Cynthia, Prescott, AZ]

She has been letting this plant get too dry. Miltoniopsis plants should not be allowed to dry out completely. These plants are also OK with lower light, like Phals. They also should be kept cool. Phals need to be kept warm, and Miltoniopsis should be kept cool, so I don't think growing them together is the best. I have grown them together in the past in an intermediate GH, but neither did well. In fact, up until very recently, I have killed every Phal I have owned, probably mostly from too much light, but probably also from not enough warmth. The Miltoniopsis I now have grow on the floor of my GH, where daytime highs are moderated, and I grow my Phals hanging near the ceiling to avoid night time chills and I avoid watering with cold water. I had a Miltoniopsis vexillaria that I grew at bench level and in Catt light for a number of years, so the Miltoniosis may be a little more adaptable that the Phals to less than perfect conditions. Did she use tap water or RO water? I think the minerals in the tap water might be of benefit if not to high. Cynthia

[kinnika]

Thank You so much for the reply..I kind of had the water thing figured by the leaves. I have a large sunroom/greenhouse attached to my house so I think I will put it in the same window only to the front as to where all my Phals are. They are all in bloom or ready to bloom so it should be fairly happy there..I will put it in the area a little cooler but get some morning light..Again Thanks again as I really don't want to see this baby die.