Vanda Manuvandee newbie
 

I am new to growing orchids and obtained this vanda because of the striking blue flowers on the specimen plant at my local orchid nursery. I took their growing class but they didn't discuss vandas.

I have been soaking it every 2 to 3 days for an hour or so because of our low humidity here in Colorado. It is growing in a small plastic pot hung from the ceiling in our east facing window. It gets bright morning sun for about 6 hours right now. Any suggestions for helping it to bloom? It has already grown some new roots...

Sounds like it's working so far for you if it's growing roots. It's going to need some fertilizer though. I use a balanced 13-13-13 water release that I got from an orchid show on my vandas here, and put those pellets in a small bag made from pantihose, so every time I water the plants they get some fertilizer. I've been successful with this so far.

Thank you. I do water every time with a 13-8-8 fertilizer i obtained from a local orchid nursery. Supposedly does well with our water here.

I am worried because my light meter only reads at about 1500 candles and i know they need a lot more light.

You may find it wants more regular watering; mine gets watered almost every day (grown on an enclosed balcony). If the roots have turned silvery (rather than green, as they are when wet) they've dried. I think most of the strap leaved vandas come from places that get regular, heavy, short rain - so regular drenching and fairly quick drying is what they like. Still, if your plant is happy with how you're treating it, don't just change your regime :)

Orchids on a Balcony: Vanda Manuvadee 'Blue'

Look at those massive roots! I will take a pic of mine and post for you. 50% shade for this guy. I fertilize every morning give or take a day all year round; keep in mind I am in a tropical climate. When it is hot however, fertilizing daily or every other day is great for it; make sure to soak/drench with water first so you don't get any salt buildup from daily fertilizing. Everything else sounds just about right for how you're growing it.
By the way, its called V. Manuvadee* :biggrin:

Of course, you are right! :bowing