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 south american beauty M A S D E V A L L I A Masdevallias are true cloud-forest orchids, requiring constant moisture. They have no pseudobulbs - the fleshy leaves are borne on tiny stems sprouting from small rhizomes - and thus cannot endure periods without water. |
 Temperature: The ideal day temperature is 75-80 degrees F., while the ideal night temperature is 60-65 degrees F. Occasional temperature extremes are tolerated if exposure is not prolonged. As long as you keep the temperature reasonable, you should have a healthy plant. Light: Bright diffused light is necessary to bring Masdevallia into bloom; this can include a little sun (not direct sunlight) for up to two hours a day. Water: Unlike some orchids that require a drying out period, Masdevallia grow throughout the entire year and must be kept evenly moist. Drench the plant in the early morning and let them dry out before nightfall. Once a week watering during the winter and twice a week during summer is normally sufficient. Repot: Masdevallia are considered epiphytes, which means that a general bark or orchid mix should suit them well. Repot your Masdevallia at least once every 2 years or when the potting medium begins to decay. See our ESSENTIALS for more details. Feeding: High-nitrogen fertilizers (25-9-9) can be used year-round at one teaspoon per gallon of water. Feed once a month. QUICK CARE FOR YOUR MASDEVALLIA 1. When you first receive your Masdevallia choose a spot for it and move it from that spot as little as possible. 2. Once the plant gets acclimated to a certain location, they tend to stay the healthiest when left in one spot. 3. After you receive the plant wait 10-12 days before watering it, after the first watering, water it once a week. When watering is complete, ensure that all the residual water has drained from the bottom of the pot before replacing it in its decorative container. 4. It is normal for the leaves and stem of the plant to have a "bent" almost drooping look. This is natural with all Masdevallia and will by no means shorten the life of the plant.
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