The Angraecum Orchid is one of the most prominent and attractive representatives of orchid crops. About two hundred different species are united by the genus. The territory of growth of wild forms covers the tropical zones of the African continent. In Madagascar and other nearby islands, this orchid is quite a common guest.
Description of Angrekum Orchid
The plant blooms with white, star-shaped flowers. Their diameter is about 3-10 cm. The size of the cup depends on the specific species. Angrekum Magdalena and Angrekum One and a half feet are considered the most popular in the world floriculture. Emerald narrow leaves are covered with an unusual waxy coating, which makes the flower even more attractive. In blooming, the orchid makes an unforgettable impression.
The plant has no pseudobulbs. Monopodial shoots and belt-like leaves form a frame. A double symmetrical rosette is formed from the leaf blades. When a certain height is reached, the peduncles need support. There are species with yellow or light green inflorescences.
Caring for the Angrekum orchid at home
Like many tropical epiphytes, Angrecum prefers a humid, warm climate. To grow a beautiful and healthy Angrecum orchid, the room must be kept humid.
Location and lighting
Light indicators play an important role in crop breeding. Angrekum grows normally under bright, diffused light. The hit of direct rays entails changes in the development of the vegetative parts. Wild species hide from the sun under the canopy of dense tropical trees. The length of daylight hours for perennials grown in an apartment is at least 12 hours throughout the year. In summer, flowerpots are allowed to be placed in open areas - on the balcony or in the garden. Fresh air has a beneficial effect on the vital activity of epiphytes. During the winter period, the flower is supplemented with the help of artificial lamps, which are installed next to the pot.
Temperature requirements
For the summer period, the pot is kept in a room where the air temperature does not exceed 25 ° C. With the arrival of winter cold weather, the temperature of the content is lowered by 4-5 ° C. However, it is important to remember that the critical range at which the flower will feel comfortable should not go beyond 16 ° C.
Drying out of the substrate is unacceptable. Systematic moistening and spraying from a spray bottle is the main condition for the full development of an orchid. Use soft irrigation water at room temperature. It is also allowed to moisten the soil with cooled boiled water. Sphagnum helps to prevent evaporation of moisture, with which the upper layer of the substrate is covered. Then the air will calmly penetrate to the roots.
The soil
Since angrecum belongs to the representatives of epiphytes, it is recommended to use the following components for the planting mixture: tree bark and coal, fern roots and sphagnum.
Top dressing
Top dressing is done during the active growth of green mass. Complex formulations of mineral origin are used, which are produced specifically for orchid crops. Take only half of the dose indicated by the manufacturer on the package.
Transfer
The transplant is carried out in 2-3 years. They select a flowerpot one size larger than the previous one and refresh the soil. The orchid is transferred to a new container only after the inflorescences have fallen off. In parallel with the transplant, the plant can be propagated.
Flowering features
Budding begins in November. Asterisk flowers stay on vertical peduncles for several weeks. Some species continue to delight with flowering until February. At night, the orchid exudes a strong aroma. In nature, its scent spreads throughout the forest and attracts insects that flock from different sides and take place inside the porcelain petals to feast on the flower nectar.
Dormant period
Angrekum develops in the same way all year round. The resting phase is practically not observed. At the end of flowering, the arrows of the peduncles should be removed. Also, watering is reduced, and the soil is no longer fertilized. The remaining nutrients in the ground will last for a couple of months.
Breeding methods for Angrekum orchids
Angrecum orchid is propagated using lateral processes. The "kids" are carefully looked after until they get stronger and acquire their own root system. In the process of deposition, extreme caution is observed, since the young roots are very fragile and break easily. If this happens, the adaptation of plants will take a long time, and the epiphyte will bloom only after a couple of years.
Diseases and pests
Orchids of this genus are considered resistant to many diseases. Symptoms of disease appear, as a rule, more often in young and weak specimens. Pests such as scale insects and gray rot pose a particular threat. If insects manage to attack a flower, the leaves are sprayed with insecticidal preparations. If traces of rot are found, the time intervals between waterings are increased. Proper care, temperature and humidity levels reduce the risk of disease. Following the recommendations of experienced gardeners, the Angrekum orchid will not cause serious trouble.
Difficulties in growing
Most of the questions that beginner florists ask are related to the flowering of the Angrekum orchid. Budding problems are caused by dry air or watering errors. The plant not only loses its spectacular flowers, but also has a painful appearance. The foliage turns yellow, the growth process slows down. If the bush looks quite healthy, but does not give inflorescences, then the flowerpot is too far from the window, and the perennial is lacking lighting.
Angrekum orchid is not pretentious in care. The secret of success in cultivating a crop includes three important factors: increased air humidity, ventilation of the room where the flower is located, and bright diffused light.
