Droopy Encyclia Vitellina - Orchid Board

Panino · #1 09-30-2014, 11:41 AM

Hello everyone!

I was hoping I could get some tips on my Encyclia Vitellina. Ever since I got her she has grown 2 pseudobulbs. The only problem is, they don't seem to get enough strength and have become droopy. I don't know what is going on. I have her in a room with minimum 15° Celsius (59 Fahrenheit) with good indirect sunlight and good airflow. I water her once a week. Does anybody have some experience growing this type of orchid? I don't know if the conditions are not ideal for her. I would appreciate any help you guys can offer... I have included a few pictures on this thread so you know what I'm talking about.

WhiteRabbit · #2 09-30-2014, 07:18 PM

How much light does it get?

silken · #3 09-30-2014, 09:39 PM

I'm wondering how the roots are. It looks a little over-potted to me, but a little hard to tell on the sideways pics. OrchidWiz specifically mentions fast open media in under-sized pots that fit the roots. This is quite a cool grower with likely a max temp of 22C or 23C in spring which is the warmest season where it naturally grows. This is according to Orchid Wiz also. I don't have this plant.

Orchid Whisperer · #4 09-30-2014, 10:09 PM

The question re: light is a good one. Encyclias need as much light as Cattleyas, at least.

Also, they need excellent drainage. IMO, baskets or clay pots with fast draining/fast drying medium is best, they will lose a lot of roots in a plastic pot if it does not dry out thoroughly. Losing roots could also result in weak, limp foliage.

vjo · #5 09-30-2014, 11:05 PM

I have mine mounted on a piece of cork, I grow under lights and it is quite close to the lights. I think yours may stay too wet your temps are good tho. Mine blooms 2x a year. Hope this helps....Jean

Panino · #6 10-02-2014, 05:11 AM

Wow, thank you so much for your replies.

That actually makes perfect sense. I have several other encyclias, but they are warm growing... so even though they are in plastic pots the room where they are is warmer so the medium dries up a lot faster. I will transfer this little fellow into a smaller clay pot... hopefully that will do the trick!

Once again, thank you so much!