Gastrochilus fuscopunctatus

[harrywitmore]

I recently purchased a plant of this species and when it arrived it had 2 ripening seed capsules. Apparently the person I bought it from hand pollinated 2 flowers March 16, 2008. My question is when should I harvest them. I have no experience with these and really want to send them to Troy Meyers.

Here's a picture of the capsules



What should I look for indicating harvest time?

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

Watch them closely from now to the end of the month. If the pods show even the slightest split from the base, take it off the plant and soak the entire thing in 3% hydrogen peroxide before sending to Troy.

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

BTW your plant is grown too wet. That's why the plant's roots are stunted and the other stalk has all of its leaves drop.

[harrywitmore]

Originally Posted by King_of_orchid_growing:)

Watch them closely from now to the end of the month. If the pods show even the slightest split from the base, take it off the plant and soak the entire thing in 3% hydrogen peroxide before sending to Troy.

Thanks, that is good to know. I love this species and would hate to lose these.

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

I forgot, soak it for about 5 to 10 minutes.

[harrywitmore]

Originally Posted by King_of_orchid_growing:)

BTW your plant is grown too wet. That's why the plant's roots are stunted and the other stalk has all of its leaves drop.

I just bought this and I don't keep it wet. Since I bought it it is putting out nice healthy looking roots which it does not have in the picture.

So, I will continue growing on the dryer side.