Orchid Miltoniopsis Care
Miltoniopsis (pronounced mil-toh-nee-OP-siss) orchids look similar to pansies, and also similar to the Miltonia orchid. These orchids originate in the higher elevations of Colombia and is considered a cool growing orchid. They have one-leaved, flattened pseudobulbs which are tightly clustered. The flowers range in colors from pure white with a colored center to dark purple with watercolor-like rippled centers.
Miltoniopsis Light
Light for the this orchid should be relatively shaded, similar to their native clouded habitat. Direct sunlight will burn the thin leaves within a short period of time.
Miltoniopsis Temperature
They prefer cool night temperatures of 50-55 F. Unless daytime temperatures are kept under 80 F, they may not flower.
Miltoniopsis Water
Watering of these orchid plants should happen every other day during the summer months and once or twice a week during the winter months to keep them evenly moist. The Miltoniopsis orchid will grow throughout the entire year.
Miltoniopsis Humidity
These orchids enjoy moist air, requiring a humidity of at least 70 percent. Increase humidity to reduce the stress on the plants when the temperature and lighting intensity increases.
Miltoniopsis Feeding
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer at half-strength every two weeks to a month. This can be reduced by half during overcast weather or in winter. It’s important to flush with clear water once a month.
Miltoniopsis Potting
They should be repotted every year as they are intolerant of stale conditions. This cool growing orchid does well in small pots. Any potting mix suitable for fine roots is adequate.
Why have some the leaves on my Miltoniopsis plant gone yellow?
I have followed all the instructions. I have been feeding 2 weekly in
luke warm water, is this correct.
Miltoniopsis do best with a light level between 1,000 and 1,500 foot candles. During periods of active vegetative growth in early spring and in the late fall and dull overcast winter months, the light intensity may be increased up to 2,000 footcandles. Dark green leaves mean you need to increase your lighting. Yellow leaves mean you need to decrease your light.
Also, the lack of magnesium robs your plants of the ability to produce the proper amount of chlorophyll, which can cause yellowing of the leaves. If your manufactured fertilizer does not contain magnesium, add one half-teaspoon of Epsom Salts (magnesium sulfate) to each gallon of fertilizer solution you prepare once every two months.