Mysterious orchid Brassia for home flower collection
The modest and unique Brassia orchid takes its rightful place in living quarters and offices. Florists appreciate it for the original shape of the buds. From the outside, they resemble a formidable spider, ready to attack the victim. However, this is only an illusion. On the contrary, its delicate petals are not dangerous and delight the eye for almost a whole year. Let’s get acquainted with this magnificent plant, and learn the secrets of its cultivation on the windowsill.
What does the Brassia orchid look like and its varieties
In its natural environment, the plant is found in Mexico. It is named after biologist William Brass, who described the flower in the 19th century. The orchid is an epiphyte, as it grows on trees in tropical forests located in the highlands..
In nature, the Brassia orchid blooms all year round.
There are about 50 varieties of culture. The most popular are:
- Warty (inflorescences are yellow-green, has glossy leaf plates);
- Spotted (purple blotches are visible on a yellow background);
- Tailed (elongated buds);
- Royal (inflorescences resemble stars);
- Summer Dream (bud size reaches 15 cm).
Despite this diversity, all varieties are united by a common culture structure. At the base of the Brassia orchid are pear-shaped “bulbs”. 2-3 lanceolate leaf plates with narrowed edges grow out of them. They are assembled into a compact outlet and painted in a deep green color.
The shortened stem of the plant usually spreads along the ground. Therefore, the bulbs that periodically appear on it are located at a short distance from each other. Inflorescences are formed in the axils of the leaf plates. Often on one peduncle, 15 to 50 cm high, there are up to 15 of them. Depending on the variety, the flowers are white, lemon, yellow and even brown. All of them exude a sweet aroma, as if daffodils were blooming on the windowsill..
Secrets of growing Brassia orchids
Although the overseas guest is accustomed to growing among the forest thickets, at home she prefers the brightest places in the room. The orchid can withstand the scorching summer sun without any problems, even on the south window. In winter, the flower needs additional lighting. To do this, use a phytolamp. As a rule, it is turned on for about 4-5 hours..
Comfortable microclimate
The Brassia orchid actively develops and blooms at temperatures between 20 and 26 ° C. The plant loves fresh air, but is afraid of drafts. To create optimal moisture, the leaf plates of the plant are sprayed 2 times a day, especially during the active formation of new shoots..
The room where the orchid grows, it is advisable to regularly ventilate.
Post-purchase actions
Buying an orchid is always a joy. Its vibrant bloom blends in effectively with home and office interiors. However, during this period, the plant is strictly forbidden to transplant. Simply spray the foliage and keep the flower away from other plants. “Quarantine” will protect it from pests and fungal infections. The transplant is carried out after the end of flowering, if the substrate has acquired a uniform structure.
Fresh soil is prepared from components:
- peat;
- chopped pine bark;
- charcoal;
- sphagnum moss;
- “Coconut chips”.
Each component is taken in equal amounts. Mix thoroughly and fill a transparent pot. Its bottom should have several holes for excess liquid to escape..
When transplanting the Brassia orchid, the root system is carefully examined. Remove soft and dark specimens, and then leave the plant for 2 hours so that the roots dry thoroughly. The prepared plant is placed in a pot, sprinkled with a substrate and dipped in a container of water for about 3-4 minutes. The moistened flower is placed on a windowsill protected from direct sunlight..
Every 2 years the plant needs a substrate renewal.
Anxious concern for culture
Systematic home care for the Brassia orchid consists of several simple procedures. Water it once a week. To do this, warm water is first poured into a spacious container (about 45 ° C). The pot is lowered there, and after 30 minutes it is removed and placed on the windowsill. In winter, the procedure is performed less often, taking into account the room temperature.
To stimulate the development of the Brassia orchid, a special feeding is applied in the spring and summer. It is purchased in flower shops. When the plant puts on its lush outfit, no fertilizer is needed. Likewise, they are canceled in winter..
Despite loving care, the orchid sometimes does not throw out the buds for a long time. A number of activities will help start the flowering process.:
- the culture is placed on the lightest windowsill;
- suit her with a gentle temperature drop in the range of 5-7 ° C;
- during the formation of new “bulbs”, the flower is transferred to a room where the temperature is maintained at 17 ° C;
- apply phosphorus-potassium fertilizers.
When the long-awaited peduncle appears, the feeding is canceled and the plant is not watered for 7 days. As a result, she will put on a unique outfit again and delight the hearts of her fans..
Unfortunately, the Brassia orchid is susceptible to disease and is sometimes attacked by pests..
However, a number of preventive measures will help prevent trouble.:
- maintaining a humid indoor climate by spraying;
- removal of excess fluid after watering;
- regular inspection of sheet plates;
- quarantine after purchase.
When a furry louse or a false shield does settle on a culture, it is carefully treated with special substances. After 7 days, the procedure is repeated. Spider mites are removed by washing the leaf plates with warm water.
As you can see, it is quite simple to grow a Brassia orchid at home. The main thing is to place it in the brightest place in the room, create a suitable microclimate and water it regularly. To stimulate development, it is worth adding top dressing. Transplant periodically into a new pot. As a token of gratitude, the Brassia orchid will dissolve its wonderful flowers and fill the room with a pleasant aroma..
