Dancing Girls.
The beauitiful brown and yellow Onidium orchids are often called, Dancing Girls.'
The Oncidium Alliance are a hardy group of orchids which thrive well in a wide temperature range. Oncidium Orchids originate from areas encompassing a range of climates from sea level in the tropics to the high mountains of South America.
They are classed as an epiphytic orchid and do best when mounted on bark mounts, which mimic the natural growth habit. This method of cultivation reduces root rot which is a common occurrence with pot grown specimens.
These orchids are usually a hardy variety and survive well in less than ideal conditions. They adapt well to a variety of temperatures range and have been hybridized and are characterized by their have large racemes of flowers which provides a vibrant show.
Dancing Girls are very popular their with collectors and florists alike. Although they grow easily they prefer bright filtered light and when this is available the leaves are bright green in colour. They turn a dark green, when the light is not sufficient.
When placed in shade houses they receive good strong filtered light and decent air flow. Most varieties look awesome when grown in hanging baskets or in slatted orchid baskets. Good drainage is essential so a course pine bark will work well.During the winter months they need little watering and more light, in the warmer months, a 50% shade cloth is suitable as is more regular watering.
These orchids like to go almost dry between watering, especially during winter dormancy. It is a good idea to Increase watering and humidity as temperatures rise. When the flowers of young plants are pinched out, this promotes the development of new plants.
The root system of a healthy plant will work its way through the potting medium, at a glance if the roots are green, then the plant is in active growth and its time to water and fertilise them. Repot Oncidiums in early spring as they move into the active growth cycle. Most varieties will flower in autumn.
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