Orchid Tolumnia Care

Tolumnia (pronounced toh-LUM-nee-ah) orchids are endemic to the Caribbean Basin with many confined to a single island. The foliage is usually 6 to 12 inches in height with miniature pseudobulbs bearing fan shaped leaf rosettes. They produce a shower of blooms 2 to 3 times a year of bright colorful blossoms ranging from bright sunshine yellows and golden browns, to vibrant reds and oranges. Their petite size and ability to adapt to a fairly wide range of conditions make them suitable for growing in small spaces.

Tolumnia Light
Bright, diffused light is preferred. Plants that are growing well but reluctant to bloom usually need an increase in light intensity.

Tolumnia Temperature
The temperature range for these orchids should mimic the Caribbean. The optimum range is 80 to 85 F during the day and 65 to 70 F during the night. Avoid prolong exposure to temperatures below 60 F or above 90 F.

Tolumnia Water
These orchids have no large pseudobulb water reserve, and must be watered well then allowed to dry out by night. The adage “if in doubt, don’t water” applies here.

Tolumnia Humidity
The humidity should be above 60%, and a good air movement must be provided so that they dry out between misting.

Tolumnia Feeding
Frequent and dilute feeding is the preferred approach using a balanced fertilizer applied every other watering at one quarter strength. Flushing with plain water once a month is important because residual salts can damage the roots.

Tolumnia Potting
The proper combination of good irrigation, adequate aeration, and rapid drying of the roots is key. Repotting should be done when new growth begins in the spring every two to three years. Mounting with twigs, cork bark, or small wood is the method of choice. They will also do well in tiny pots filled with loose charcoal, small orchid bark, or any other fine material.