Caring for Orchids

Miltonia (mil-TOE-nea-ah)

Miltonias are often called Pansy Orchids because their flat-faced, open flowers resemble pansies in shape and markings. These charming irresistible plants bloom profusely. The richly colored, fragrant flowers are borne on slender arching stems. From the time that the flower bud on the stems opens, it will remain in bloom for 4 to 6 weeks.

LIGHTING
Miltonias prefer indirect sunlight from either an east or a shaded south-facing window. When the temperatures exceeds 80°F increase shading. The leaves on the plant should be light green. If the leaves are dark green, increase lighting. If the leaves turn yellowish green or reddish, increase shading.

TEMPERATURE
In temperate regions, the plants may be grown outside under a protected patio. Plants grown in the home should be placed next to a cool window.

Columbian Miltonias (Miltoniopsis type) prefer cooler temperatures. For best results, provide nighttime temperatures 50 to 60°F and daytime temperatures under 85°F.

Brazilian Miltonias (spectabilis, warscewiczii, and clowesii) prefer slightly warmer temperatures. For best results, provide nighttime temperatures 55to 65°F and daytime temperatures 70 to 85°F.

WATERING
Depending upon the temperature, Miltonias should be watered twice a week. During the summer, the plants may need to be watered every 2-3 days. The rule of thumb for watering should be as followed : More heat more water, less heat less water.

Miltonias prefer to be kept on moist side. This does not mean that Miltonias like to be left in standing water. Try to water the plants early in the day, so that the foliage will be dry by nightfall. To prevent bacterial and fungal disease use Physan 20 once a month.

Never allow Miltonias to dry out! New leaves will have a pleated appearance, like an accordion. This is irreversible.

HUMIDITY
Miltonias prefer 55to 65% humidity. Humidity Trays are needed for Miltonias grown in the house. An increase in humidity is needed to reduce the stress on the plants when the temperature and lighting intensity increases.

FERTILIZER
Miltonias must be fertilized on a regular basis! For best results, use Norman's Optimal Orchid Nutrients every other week. Reduce orchid nutrients to 1/2 teaspoon per gallon of water. It is recommended to pre-water plants before applying the diluted nutrient solution, if the potting media is dry.

POTTING
Miltonias must be grown in Fine Orchid Bark Mix. Miltonias should be repotted once every two years. Ideally, the best time to repot Miltonias is immediately after blooming.

PESTS
Common pests associated with Miltonias are scale, spider mites and aphids. X-CLUDE, an encapsulated pyrethrum time-release insecticide, and Neem Oil are the most efficient methods of pest control.

SHOP FOR MILTONIA