Spathoglottis Plicata Yellow Ground Orchid

Selling Part: A Bulb | Pot Included | Secure Packing 

The Spathoglottis Plicata Yellow Ground Orchid is a popular and relatively easy-to-care-for terrestrial orchid, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Unlike many other orchids that grow on trees (epiphytes), this one grows in soil and can be grown in garden beds or containers.

Here is a comprehensive guide to caring for your Yellow Ground Orchid:

Light

• Bright, indirect light is ideal. This orchid thrives with plenty of bright, filtered light.
• Tolerates some direct sun. It can handle a few hours of direct morning sunlight but should be protected from the harsh midday and afternoon sun, which can scorch its leaves.
• Outdoor placement: Plant it in a location with partial shade, such as under a tree.
• Indoor placement: Place it near an east or north-facing window where it can receive bright, filtered light.

Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. This is crucial for their health, especially during the active growing season (spring and summer).
• Water thoroughly. When you water, do so until water drains freely from the bottom of the pot.
• Check the soil: Allow the top inch or so of the soil to feel dry before watering again.
• Reduce frequency in cooler months. During fall and winter, when the plant’s growth slows, you can reduce watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings.

Soil and Potting

• Terrestrial, not epiphytic. Use a well-draining soil mix designed for terrestrial plants.
• Ideal potting mix: A good mix can be a combination of regular potting soil with added orchid bark, perlite, or sand to improve drainage. Some growers also use a mix of peat and perlite/bark.
• Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Make sure the container has ample drainage holes.
• Repotting: These orchids have extensive root systems and are fast-growing, so they may need to be repotted every 2-3 years to accommodate new growth. Do not bury the pseudobulbs, as this can lead to rot.

Fertilizer

• Regular feeding is important during the growing season.
• Frequency: Fertilize every two weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (such as a 20-20-20 formula) from spring through summer.
• Dilution: You can use a diluted fertilizer at about 1/4 strength with every watering.
• Slow-release: A slow-release granular fertilizer can also be applied at the beginning of the growing season.
• Reduce or stop feeding in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing

Temperature and Humidity

• Prefers warm temperatures. Spathoglottis orchids thrive in temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
• Cold sensitivity: They are sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C). In cooler climates, they are best grown in containers so they can be moved indoors during winter.
• High humidity. They prefer moderate to high humidity levels (50-70%).
• How to increase humidity: You can mist the plant daily, place it on a pebble tray filled with water, or use a room humidifier.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Remove spent flowers. Cut back old flower spikes to the base after the flowering season to encourage new blooms.
• Remove dead foliage. Trim away yellowing or dead leaves to promote healthy growth and air circulation, which helps prevent disease.
• Pest and disease control: These orchids are generally hardy but can occasionally be affected by common pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Inspect the plant regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed. Root rot can be an issue if overwatered, so proper watering is key.