Stanhopea

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Light

Should be bright, with direct sunlight diffused so as not to burn the leaves. Most growers suspend Stanhopeas due to their pendulous inflorescences. This also brings the plants closer to the light. Light levels approximating those for Cattleyas, around 3,000 foot-candles, are best.

Temperature

Should be moderate: 52° to 60° F at night, with day temperatures 68° to 75° F in the winter. Plants can stand short spells of higher temperatures, but air movement, humidity and shading must all be increased.

Many species flower in the summer, so putting them outside in the summer may be beneficial. Move them into higher light slowly to avoid burn.

Water

Watering these orchids in ample quantities is important to produce strong pseudobulbs and prevent foliar spotting. Stanhopeas and their relatives can be sensitive to salt accumulation in the medium. They should never be allowed to dry out entirely, even during the winter months when growth may slow or stop.

Poor watering habits are also conducive to root loss in the orchid types. Some may be very slow to re-establish once they have lost their roots.

Fertilizer

Fertilize at regular intervals. Most growers use a diluted concentration every week or two. For plants in bark, use a 30-10-10 high-nitrogen formulation, alternating with a 20-20-20 balanced formulation. In the blooming season, which is mainly summer, use a 10-30-20 formulation. Plants grown in osmunda need fertilization only infrequently.

Potting

Best done after summer flowering, as most plants seem to grow year round. Plants that rest in the winter can be repotted in the spring. The best flowerings come from large clumps of plants, so large baskets are commonly used. An airy, moist medium, such as medium-grade fir bark (often mixed with sphagnum peat) or osmunda fiber, seems to work best. Vigorous plants need repotting every three years or so.