FLOWERS:

These are generally known as the Pansy Orchids, due to their close resemblance to the garden pansy.

Miltoniopsis are cool-growing orchids that originated in the higher elevations of the Andes in Columbia, Panama, and Ecuador.
The Miltonia are the warmer growing species, which originate from the Minas Gerais area of Brazil. They more closely resemble large-flowered oncidiums.

REPOTTING

Repotting should be done after flowering and when the new growth starts to appear.
Miltoniopsis should be repotted every year as they are intolerant of stale conditions. They do well in smaller pots
Miltonia tend to have a relatively elongated creeping habit and therefore do slightly better mounted. Any orchid potting mix suitable for fine roots, such as 70% seedling bark with charcoal and river sand, should be fine. Mounts may be cork or other hardwood. Shallow pans are more suitable than deep pots.
We sell bags of readymade Orchid potting mix.

LIGHT:

The light should be relatively shaded. Direct sunlight burns the thin leaves within a short period of time. However, the warmer growing types prefer more light than their cooler-growing relatives. The cool to intermediate growing species need approximately 60% shade while the warmer-growing species require 40% shade.

FEEDING AND WATERING:

Miltoniopsis and Miltonias should receive water at least once a week, however, this can vary from area to area, depending on weather conditions. It’s advisable to water plants in the morning and allow them to drain freely. Do not water in the heat of the day as this may cause shoots to rot.
From September to December it’s recommended to include a high nitrogen-based fertiliser / feed in every second watering. We recommend Starke Ayres ‘Growing Orchids’
For the period of January – March, one would then swop over to a flowering feed for example Starke Ayres ‘Flowering Orchids’. One may also use organic fertilisers such as Sea Grow and Nitrosol in alternative watering.
A flat teaspoon of dolomitic lime per pot, once a year is beneficial.

PESTS

Snails and ants love cymbidiums. Remember to place some snail bait down to avoid snails from eating the young buds and new root tips. We use Jeyes Fluid to help discourage ants.