I still think the phal ought to be getting enough light, so have to wonder
what else is going on. What kind of fertilizer do you use?
I cannot recommend a brand on the fixture, but they and the bulbs ought to
be available at most Sears, Lowes, or Home Depots.
--
Ray Barkalow - First Rays Orchids -
www.firstrays.com
Plants, Supplies, Books, Artwork, and Lots of Free Info!
.. . . . . . . . . . .
"gardenjan" wrote in message
et...
Thanks everyone for your responses. I believe my plants are not getting
enough light due to the way light comes into the windows. The windows
face
east on one side and west ( of course) on the other, but not directly.
The
orchids get the east sun in the a.m. but only for a few hours. I have
read
articles from the S.F. Orchid Show, Rod McClellan (sp?) and a few books I
have on growing Orchids as well as checking some websites. I'm following
the information given on watering and temperature. I've checked the light
at different times of the day with a light meter.
Ray, you recommend a quality fixture with an electronic ballast. You also
recommend the GE "Sunlight" bulb. Would you reply with information on the
brand of the fixture you recommend and sources where these items can be
purchase.
Thanks again for your help.
"Ray" wrote in message
...
Before you go investing in fluorescent fixtures, why not describe why
you
think your plants aren't getting sufficient light. There are more
things
than just light that affect blooming, and the phal should be pretty good
about fairly low light levels.
If you do decide to go with lights, don't bother to buy one of those
cheapie
2-bulb fixtures. The ballast will die in short order. You're better
off
with a quality fixture, and one with an electronic ballast will be
quieter,
last longer, and will waste less energy generating heat.
FWIW, I prefer the GE "Sunlight" bulbs, as they have a broad spectrum
and
are only a buck or two more than ordinary cool whites.
--
Ray Barkalow - First Rays Orchids - www.firstrays.com
Plants, Supplies, Books, Artwork, and Lots of Free Info!
. . . . . . . . . . .
"gardenjan" wrote in message
news:A2B4b.239420$cF.77342@rwcrnsc53...
My Cattleya (mini), and Phalaenopsis do not get enough light to
flower.
They both grow new leaves and roots. I want to try fluorescent
lighting.
Any suggestions on types of fluorescent light bulbs, wattage, and
hours
a
day needed for encouraging flowering.
All replies appreciated. Thanks.