Eddie,
I grow my reed stem Epis according to the type. There are some smaller ones
that I grow in a mixture of coconut husk chips, small Aliflor, charcoal and
sponge rock. The taller ones I have in straight Aliflor. I can tell you that
when I repot, they are all going into Aliflor. It's just easier.
As for your tall one, I suggest one of two things (or both). If there is an
area of the pool deck (that's where we grow, too) that gets high light all
day, it will love it there and tend to stand up straighter, too. If not, try
using a ring that attaches to the pot and surrounds the stems. This will
help, but it won't be enough. You're going to need to devise some type of
staking and tie the stems to that with floral wire or tape (you can get
those at HD). It's also possible to use Velcro. And if it's prone to falling
over, either put it in a much heavier pot or rig something up to one of the
posts that hold up your patio roof.
I give these lots of water. For the ones in Aliflor, they get water at least
every other day.
HTH
Diana
"SuE" wrote in message
...
On Tue, 29 May 2007 22:28:51 GMT, eddie rukidding
wrote:
Thanks Diana & Sue for the info.
What is the best way to care for this plant? Should it be potted like
other orchids or in dirt?
Should I support its tall growth? Sounds like it may need a trellis
arrangement (?). Any suggestions for keeping it from falling over?
I'd prefer to keep it in the pool area where it can be enjoyed if I
can.
Snipped----------
Florida - Talk to Diana about ground or pot growing.
Mine is in a 8" clay pot.
I would suggest you add a few support points to a roof support pole.
If you must move it for storm protection, maybe just some type of
spike in the upright that the plant can be leaned into to help catch
it when it wants to move sideways. Or just tie it to the uprights.
This is more a tip precaution than support. Although I do believe it
will spread if allowed to fall, break and root in place. It is a
beautiful splash of color. I was enjoying mine thru the gh wall while
John painted yesterday.
SuE
http://orchids.legolas.org/gallery/main.php