Most Oncidium orchid species produce dozens of small flowers at a time, providing a magnificent display 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 one common characteristic: the lower petal is always perpendicular to the side petals. The characteristic shape of the flowers gives Oncidium orchids their common name of ballerina orchids .
Variety of orchids
There are hundreds of species of orchids, all native to tropical and subtropical regions, including the Andes Mountains, the rainforests of Jamaica, and the tropical river valleys of Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru.
If the relative humidity drops below 50%, use a gravel tray or a humidifier to increase the humidity. Grouping plants together also helps maintain a good humidity level around them. You can sprinkle a little water on the leaves every day.
How to grow an orchid
Oncidium orchid plants need plenty of light but cannot tolerate direct sunlight. If you can’t place them near a window, use artificial lighting, such as fluorescent bulbs.
Use a warm white and a cool white tube under a spotlight. Place the orchids 8 inches apart under the light for 14 to 16 hours a day. Make sure they stay dark at night; even plants need to rest.
Keep orchid 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.
Water less during other times of the year, allowing the soil to dry well between waterings.
If you want to transplant your orchid, remember that the best time to do so is immediately after flowering. This will allow the plant to produce beautiful new flowers by having more nutrient-rich soil available.