Vanda tessellata (also known as Grey orchid or Checkered Vanda) is a species of orchid occurring from the Indian subcontinent to Indochina. It is a medicinal plant.
Vandas require a great deal of water. In fact, in periods of high temperatures they might need to be watered twice a day. Otherwise, you'll most likely still have to water once a day, though you should back off to roughly once a week during winter dormancy. During the growing season, the growing medium should be consistently moist but not soggy.
Vandas require bright light, but they generally don't thrive in full sunlight. They can acclimate to full sun, though these plants are generally washed out and not as healthy as those grown under light shade cloth to take the edge off strong sunlight. Be aware of the species of vanda you have, as some require more sunlight than others.
Vandas are heavy feeders, and well-fed plants bloom better. Fertilize weekly with a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer throughout the growing season. You can switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer on every third application to promote better blooms. During cool weather, cut back the fertilizer to every two to four weeks.
These orchids naturally grow in rocky areas with little soil. Their large roots meander through the air and grasp onto nearby trees and other objects. Growing them in a typical potting mix can kill the plants. Instead, opt for a basket that allows good airflow for the roots. To keep the plant in place, add bark, peat moss, or another soilless medium to the basket. You also can use a potting medium specifically made for orchids. Eventually, the roots will attach to the basket to hold the plant upright.
Vandas prefer temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate lower temperatures, but prolonged exposure to cold can have a profound effect on a plant's growth and flowering. Exposure to any temperature below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can cause delayed flowering for up to a year.
To start a vanda in a basket, weave the roots through the basket slots and wire the stem base in place with plant wire. Use soilless growing media to further hold the plant in place. Vandas don't need repotting often, as the roots don't mind hanging out of the basket
flowergiftsbloomingApr 1 · 7 min readComprehensive Guide to National Flowers DayNational Flowers Day celebrates the dawning of perhaps the most anticipated season of all – spring! The day marks the end of winter and a floral character of blooming beauty, positivity, and grace.
flowerflower-meaningsspeciesMar 13 · 10 min readFull Guide on Lotus Flower Meaning, Symbolism and Plant OverviewLotus is an abstract depiction of various religious entities. Because this knowledge may be limited only to where it is commonly cultivated and traded, we will try to shed light on the legends.
diseaseproblempestsMar 4 · 8 min readFull Guide on Plant Leaves Turning YellowYellowing of plant leaves is like a fever in humans, but unlike a doctor prescribing paracetamol for a headache, you will need more than just a plant pill!
speciesgardeningoutdoor-cultivationFeb 27 · 11 min readFull Guide on Best and Worst Potato Companion PlantsPotato companion plants are a diverse crop family thought to have positive agronomic effects on potatoes, soil, and even pest protection.
fruitplantinggardeningFeb 20 · 8 min readFull Guide on Blueberry Companion PlantsSome crops can help blueberries in various ways, all of which are directed to soil improvement, pest resistance, and harvest increment. So, come along to the world of companion plants for blueberries!