Miltoniopsis in general appreciate cooler conditions. Having said that
there are any number of warm tolerant Miltonopsis hybrids out there. Not
taking the time to investigate your hybrid's specific background makes any
comment I could make almost meaningless, however that won't stop me, LOL!

I've had trouble here in California keeping these moist enough and humid
enough. I doubt you'd encounter either of these 'problems' in Florida. I
agree with our surmise that the outdoor heat was too much for it or too much
for it all at once, and a period of acclimation may be required before you
try putting it outdoors next year, if it lasts until next year. I say that
not becasue of anything you or your wife have done or will do to the plant,
just that many times these 'box store' orchids are 'forced' into bloom, and
take some time to recover, if ever they do. In other words its not your
fault if it dies.

Speaking very generally I've found that Miltoniopsis like to be repotted
into fresh mix annually. They don't like salts accumulating at the roots.
They like to be pot bound. and they like a certain amount of light in order
to bloom. They like to be evenly moist. Not soaking wet. Not soaking wet
then allowed to dry completely. Evenly moist. And that's my trouble with
them. I let them dry too much. They linger and fail to bloom.... hmmmmm,
are you sure you want to take advice from me???

Personally, I'd do just what you did. Take it inside, keep it from drafts
from the A/C and heat (since hopefully you'll have it into the winter) put
it in a place where it gets bright indirect light and see what happens.
Feed with half strength plant food.

If anyone else has any input I'm all ears too!

K Barrett

"eddie rukidding" wrote in message
...
Hello All

My wife recently purchased a miltoniopsis orchid - Milt. Kelly
Barfiled 'MKO' - in bloom at the local Lowes. She's not owned one
before. It appears to be a healthy plant It is the "pansy" type.

She put it out on our pool deck area (in central Florida) with her
Phil. collection.

WIthin in 2-3 days, the flowers wilted and the leaves sagged. We've
since brought it in doors and the leaves seemed to have perked up.

Is this an orchid that can do well outdoors in Florida or do we need
to keep it out of the heat?

Any thoughts / expoeriences appreciated.

Duane