Vanda Seedlings...what are your methods?
 

Hey, guys.

I've just received my first ever vanda seedlings from the lovely Krull & Smith. What are your experiences with growing vanda seedlings? What do you grow them in (bare root as for mature vandas or mix, s/h, self watering?), pots, vases, etc. I've seen several different setups so would love to know what y'all are doing and what has worked for you. I've grown vandas for years but only mature. All bare root in baskets or growing on trees, but these little cuties are new to me. They sent quite a variety! I'm researching the parentage and climate of each but would love to know what sort of things you've done....like clawhammer's cool shower setup.

I am in 9b with the options of outdoor or indoor growing, lots of sun and shade options. Thanks!

They dry out faster than larger plants, so water even more. I wouldn't put them outside in the winter in 9b.

Fertiliser: Less is better. They are still babies and don’t need heavy feeding. Too much fertiliser also kills the root and root is life. Without good root system, the plant can’t absorb the water and nutrients it needs. Also cut back during winters as the plant grows slower.

Watering: Moderate but keep it on the dry side. Soggy roots overnight is a recipe for disaster causing root or stem rot.

Light. Dappled light. Less is better if you’re not sure how strong of light it can bear.

I’ve lost a couple of seedlings by overdoing those mentioned above. Seedlings are more sensitive and the impact of any mistakes are more detrimental. The smaller the plant, the harder for it to bounce back.

I grow few vandas and try to avoid the small seedlings. The 4 inch pot baggie size from sun bulb at big box stores occasionally request a trip home with me. They do well in wood baskets under 50 percent shade cloth sitting or hanging in an open area. They need daily watering with a misting want until all roots turn green and sometimes more that once, depending on air movement.
They love the rain and consistent feeding. Vandas are always growing and benefit from constant (weekly) feeding.
they do not like cold temps lower 50s.
If you have a green house then you can grow them free hanging on a wire and will do just fine.
I grow in the Gainesville area.