AboutOrchids

If you think all orchids need warmth, then these beautiful Odonts will surprise you. Odont is a conveniently shortened nickname for Odontoglossum. The pink hybrid pictured in the first row and the yellow hybrid pictured in the second row are great examples of this cool growing orchid family. They are reliable bloomers on our back deck every winter. Their flowers last for months, even during brushes with freezing temps and hailstorms. Native to high elevations in the Andes and the mountains of Central America, these Odonts enjoy chilly weather and foggy breezes.

For most growers, it’s a challenge to keep these orchids cool enough, especially in summer. Odonts can tolerate a few warm days, but usually need to stay under 80°F (27°C.) In the mild climate of the Northern California coast, they are easy to keep outdoors, as long as they are protected from freezes.

Odonts need frequent waterings and bright light, and enjoy direct morning sun. They require high humidity and good air movement, even during winter dormancy. Odonts lend their hardiness to many hybrid varieties, making it possible to enjoy their beauty in a wider range of temperatures. Over the past few years, scientists have reclassified many Odonts as Oncidiums or Rhynchosteles, but the older orchid names often stick around. No matter what they’re called, Odonts prove that you don’t need to live in the tropics to grow orchids.

Explore posts in the same categories: Cool Growers, Dormancy, Growing, Photos, Watering

This entry was posted on Tuesday, January 14th, 2014 at 11:11 pm and is filed under Cool Growers, Dormancy, Growing, Photos, Watering.

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