Coryanthes

[RebelCowgirl]

I was researching Coryanthes care and I came across an article that said they like slightly acidic medium and it suggested using lemon juice to raise the acidity in the water being used. Is there any truth to this, I did not find this anywhere else in my research and also the Coryanthes are kin to the Stanhopeas and Gongoras, do they also like slightly acidic conditions also. In the article it had something to do with the ants that lived in or near the plant that caused the growing medium to be acidic. Any thoughts on this? I am getting a flask of Coryanthes this week, am suggestions from the pros as far as tips and tricks I should know to care for these little guys?

[1joyceh]

never heard of doing that for any plant....spagnum already has a low ph, I believe...is that what you will use Jenny?
I have no knowledge about Coryanthes, very interested in the answer...

[Filb]

I think watering with lemon juice would have too much of a temporary effect.
If you want to increase the overall acidity, you have to alter the hydrogen ion concentration in your medium.
Maybe something as simple as watering with a plant food amended with sulfates of some sort of just buying an acid loving plant fertilizer might help.

Good luck!

[1joyceh]

great idea! there are a few out there for acid loving plants

[RebelCowgirl]

Awesome, I never thought about that Thanks guys.