Most species of Oncidium orchids produce dozens of small flowers at the same time, giving us a wonderful show that lasts for several weeks. The flowers can be yellow, white, red, pink, green or brown.
The shape of these flowers can vary, but they all share a common feature: the lower petal is always perpendicular to the side petals. The characteristic shape of the flowers gives Oncidium orchids their common name of dancing orchids .
Varieties of orchids
There are hundreds of species of orchids, all native to tropical and subtropical areas, which include the Andes mountains, the humid forests of Jamaica, and the tropical river valleys of Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru.
If the relative humidity drops below 50%, use a pebble tray or humidifier to increase the humidity in the air. Grouping plants together also helps maintain a good level of humidity around them. You can spray a little water on the leaves every day.
How to grow an orchid
Oncidium orchid plants need a lot of light but cannot tolerate direct sun. If you can’t place them near a window, use artificial lighting, such as fluorescent bulbs.
Use a warm white tube and a cool white tube under a spotlight. Place orchids 20 centimeters under light for 14 to 16 hours a day. Make sure they stay in the dark during the night, plants need to rest too.
Keep the orchid’s potting soil slightly moist during the growing season. Be careful not to overwater and remember that Oncidiums store water in their pseudobulbs, making them more tolerant of dry soil than wet ones.
Water less during other times of the year, allowing the soil to dry well between one watering and the next.
If you wish to transplant the orchid, remember that the best time to do so is immediately after flowering. This will allow the plant to create new and beautiful flowers while having a more nutrient-rich soil available.