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Zygopetalum is native to South America. In the wild, it grows on tree trunks, rocks, and on the ground between leaves. Zygopetalum easily develops new shoots. This makes for an abundantly flowering plant, making it a showpiece in the living room with its blue, red or green flowers. Some of the species produce a sweet scent when flowering. In comparison to other orchids, Zygopetalum does well with abundant watering.
Light: In a bright, but shaded spot, but no direct sunlight.
Temperature: Zygopetalum loves a temperature between 15 and 18 degrees Celcius.
Water: This orchid should not be overwatered. It is sufficient to water it once every seven to nine days. Water zygopetalum only once its soil is almost dry. This can easily be determined by means of a skewer. Stick the skewer in the soil and retrieve it occasionally. Zygopetalum requires water if the skewer is dry.
Spraying flower buds: The humidity in a home can be low during the winter and summer months. Spray the smallest buds daily to prevent them from drying out and not flowering.
Fertiliser: Twice per month, feed zygopetalum our special orchid fertiliser ‘Groei en bloei’. Dosage: one level teaspoon per one litre of water. In February, May, and September, sprinkle one level teaspoon of ‘Grondverbeteraar’ (soil improver) once over the potting mix. The orchid does not require fertiliser from November up to and including January. Both products are sold in our shop.
Soil: It is important to replant oncidium once every three to four years in orchid potting mix. For zygopetalum, the Orchideeën Hoeve has put together a well-aerated mix of bark, coco, and peat. This mix is available at our shop. Please do this if the orchid has finished flowering (preferably in springtime).
After flowering: Please do cut off the stem at the bottom if it is past flowering. The orchid will generate another stem from a new shoot. This will take approximately eight to twelve months.
Tip for repotting: Zygopetalum can be repotted in a larger pot if the orchid’s roots are healthy. However, if the roots are soft and/or decayed, it is recommended to remove those parts and to repot the orchid in the same pot. Tearing/dividing is also an option once zygopetalum has grown beyond the edge of the pot. Divide a single plant into two plants, at the most. Next, place these plants in a pot of the same size.
