Measuring the amount of light needed for Orchids to grow
Without light the orchid cannot germinate, grow or produce flowers. Light requirements are directly influenced by temperature needs. Light requirement caused the orchids to adapt in shape.
1. Terrestrial orchids which have bulbs and soft leaves do not require direct sunlight. An example being Paphiopedilum.
2. Epiphytes do not require much sunlight as well because of their large and flash leaves. An example being Phalaenopsis.
3. Orchids that have relatively strong leaves with wide surfaces and bulbs only need direct sunlight in their flowering stages. Examples include Cattleys, Cymbidium and Laelia.
4. Orchids with tough, narrow leathery leaves and huge bulbs such as Vanda adore sunlight.
5. Narrow leaved orchids are adapted to high intensity of light. An example being Dendrobium striolatum.
Orchids flourish in light intensities between 6000 10 000 lux measured using a luxmeter.
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Ideal window positions for orchids
A luxmeter records between 3000 5000 lux on east and west facing windows. North facing windows record between 800 1000 lux for species that thrive in shade.
South facing windows record 20 000 lux and are ideal during winer. In summer the window will have to be provided with shade using a curtain or blind.
Artificial light and orchids
Orchids can survive in positions that do not have accessible light. They can use light produced by special plant strip lights. They can be installed by a professional electrician who can fit a timer switch to turn the lamps on and off as required. Hanging and wall lamps can be used as well as they are less expensive. Make sure that the lamps you buy are resistant to water.
Do not subject the orchids to excessive artificial light (recommended time = less 14 hours) otherwise they will not flower.
Humidity What is it and how does it affect orchids
Humidity is defined as the percentage of water vapour in the air, 100% means the air is completely saturated with water vapour. It is measured using a barometer.
Orchids thrive in humid conditions between 60% - 70%. During the summer indoor levels will be around 50% and good for orchids. During the winter heating systems consume moisture in the air causing a great reduction in humidity levels in the air by about 15%. Humidity levels around 35% are not suitable for orchid growth.
Raising Humidity levels
If your orchids are experiencing low humid levels you may use misters, electrical humidifiers, plastic grid or plant bath to raise the humidity