Winner Of the Fragrant Orchid Award: Zygopetalum
Posted in Gardening Tips on April 2 2013, by Sonia Uyterhoeven
With spring finally here and the seasonal explosion of flowers everywhere, it’s time to yearn for fragrance. While we wait for the flowers to bloom outside, a trip to The Orchid Show should dazzle your senses. But soon the heydays of spring will be upon us, and two of my favorite fragrant outdoor plants will be filling the air with old-fashioned perfume; lilac and hyacinth.
Inside during The Orchid Show, one of my favorite orchids is Zygopetalum. This orchid doesn’t sport a common name so the only thing you will be able to do short of remembering its botanical name is to refer to it as a ‘zygo’. Everyone in the orchid world will know what you are talking about. ‘Zygo’s’ flower in winter and early spring so they add a delicious perfume to your home while there is still snow on the ground.
Zygopetalum tend to be an exotic combination of chocolate brown, green, velvety purple, and white. It’s not a brassy bloom but one that is certainly enticing and draws you in. They are however good at expressing their needs. If you are not giving them enough light they will start to stretch and get lanky. All plants do this to some degree, but these orchids will really let you know.
Zygopetalum also have a fine root system that is on the sensitive side. If you are over-fertilizing them the tips of their leaves will quickly discolor and turn black. Fertilize at a reduced rate (1/4 strength) once a month. If the tips of the leaves are starting to turn black, flush out the container with distilled water. It’s a good practice to flush all orchid pots once a month with water to get rid of the salt content.
Zygopetalum like medium to bright indirect light and intermediate temperatures, so don’t let the temperature get too hot. Most orchids like the top inch of the mix to dry out–horticulturists usually refer to the pot as ‘approaching dryness’–the top will be dry but the rest of the mix will still contain some moisture. ‘Zygo’s’ on the other hand don’t like to dry out that much so the water should be a little more consistent; keep them moist, not wet. Soggy potting material will be a problem.
Orchid care tip sheets from the Home Gardening Center
Zygopetalum are sensitive to stagnant air. They will be one of the first orchids in your collection that will start to show signs of stress. Invest in a small oscillating fan and a humidifier. If the humidifier seems like too much of a purchase you can always create a humid microclimate by taking a tray and covering it with small pebbles. Partially fill the tray with water, just make sure the pebbles are not submerged. Arrange your orchids on the tray, making sure that the pots do not come in contact with the water. The water will slowly evaporate and raise the humidity in the vicinity. Your orchids will appreciate the gesture and reward you with delicious fragrance!
