Stanhopea

Light requirements vary. Most species require light conditions of 21,500-43,000 lumens (2,000 to 4,000 foot-candles). More light should be provided during dormancy, as in nature, the plants become more exposed to direct sun.

Temperature for the evergreen species should be fairly constant and not be hot. Nights of 60F (16C) and days of 70F to 80F (21C-27C) are desirable. Deciduous species can tolerate a wider range, up to 95F (35C) during the day and down to 50F (10C) at night when dormant in winter. If keeping plants cool, also keep them drier to prevent rot.

Water in ample quantities is important to produce strong pseudobulbs and prevent foliar spotting. Stanhopeas and their relatives can be sensitive to salt accumulation in the medium, so should never be allowed to dry out entirely, even during the winter months when growth may slow or stop. Poor watering habits are also conducive to root loss in these types, and some may be very slow to re-establish once they have lost their roots.

Humidity should be maintained at 40% to 80%. Deciduous species need less humidity when dormant. Brisk air circulation will help prevent damage to leaves by leafspot fungi.

Fertilize regularly and heavily when plants are actively growing. A higher nitrogen formulation (such as 30-10-10) is recommended during active growth. In autumn, or as growths mature and pseudobulbs are produced, fertilizer should be reduced or switched to a high-phosphorus (such as 10-30-20) formulation to stimulate flower production.

Potting is best when new growth starts, usually in the spring. A fine-grade potting medium is often used; fir bark and perlite (3:1) is a common, fast-draining mix, though some species are planted in 100% sphagnum. If planting in sphagnum, the pot should be a net pot. If using the bark mix, the pot should be plastic. Always pot these orchids in hanging slatted baskets, as some species flower from the bottom of the plant. The plant should be positioned in the vessel so that the newest growths are farthest away from the edge of the pot, allowing the maximum number of new growths without crowding the pot. Spread the roots over a cone of potting medium and fill in around the roots and the pseudobulbs. Push the medium firmly around the roots and water after repotting. Keep the humidity high and the potting medium on the semi-dry side until new roots form.

Further information can be found on the Stanhopea genus page.

Best orchid care practices are also provided for watering, repotting, and fertilizer types. There are also detailed discussions of growing orchids indoors, outdoors, or in greenhouses.

For more information on genus name changes, see Taxonomy.