Masdevallia Opinion

[Miyuki]

I may have spoke too soon in thinking I purchased plants I was comfortable with. I bought a Masdevallia - Highland Fling "Orange Sherbet". (As long as I buy something orange, my husband is placated enough to approve my spending spree). Anyway, it is supposed to be okay with intermediate temperatures, so I figured that humidity was my only real concern. So I placed it in this round, lipped glass bowl filled with water, pebbles and some moss. I am hoping that the lipped shape will hold the humidity around the pot area, while the leaves still get good air movement. It is potted in spagnum. Should I be repotting? If so, what medium? S/H? What do you think of my bowl idea?

[smartie2000]

I think sphag is the perfect media for masd.
I don't think the bowl will keep enough humidity around the plant. A taller bowl could be more effective

[Bolero]

Yep sphag should be fine, the bowl idea is ok but I agree with smartie that maybe it could be taller.

Mind you I've grown mine in 30% humidity at times with few problems, provided the mix doesn't dry out.

[Ray]

Two comments and a question:

1) I have to nip this one in the bud: Semi-Hydroponics is NOT a medium, it is a cultural technique that may be accomplished with a variety of inorganic media, with some brands of LECA being the best.

2) That particular hybrid is Copper Angel x vietchiana. Copper Angel is triangularis x vietchiana. M. vietchiana is definitely a cold grower, and triangularis is a cold-to intermediate grower, so be sure to protect it from summer heat.

3) Why is it that those very appealing, brightly colored flowers ALWAYS come from conditions I don't have?!?!?!?!

[smartie2000]

Originally Posted by Ray

3) Why is it that those very appealing, brightly colored flowers ALWAYS come from conditions I don't have?!?!?!?!

That is so true for me too! I really want to keep all those bright reds, but they want it so cool

[Tindomul]

Very nice Masdie! I love the flower and the leaf size/color. I agree, a taller bowl would be best.
However, recently I have been thinking.
If you keep the roots cold and humid, but the leaves are as always, will the plant be just as happy as if all of it were cold and humid?

[Miyuki]

Thanks for all comments. I think I'll keep it in spagnum for now. Overall, I like the aesthetics of the whole thing. I have been thrilled with the results I've had using S/H method (you are right Ray about medium vs method), but my homemade containers leave much to be desired appearance wise. It is hard to tell from the photo, but the lip of the bowl is about an inch higher than the top of the pot. I will keep my eye out for something higher should it prove necessary. I was told by the vender that it still needs air movement which is why I decided to try this combination. Ray, what would you think is the highest summer temp. it would tolerate?