How to Care for an Encyclia Orchid

Encyclia is the Latin name for the butterfly orchid. The orchid has an arching yellow flower cluster that extends upward from the four leaves at the bottom of the apex. The flower gives a slight scent while the bloom is present. The orchid will grow and flourish, but will last for many years if properly cared for indoors if you know how to care for an Encyclia orchid.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gravel
• Orchid fertilizer
• Misting bottle

1. Place the orchid in a location with indirect sunlight such as an east or south window. The light should be bright, but filtered.

2. Water the soil thoroughly and allow the soil to dry moderately before the next watering. Place gravel in the tray under the pot so that the excess water will drain out and create humidity for the orchid. The orchid needs high humidity that can be obtained with bright light and water in the gravel. Use a misting bottle to spray the leaves and keep them moist. Use warm water, not cold water.

3. Keep the temperatures in the room between 50 and 75 degrees F for the best results. Lower temperatures should be avoided. During summer months, the plant can be placed outside, but should be brought inside if the temperatures should drop below 50 degrees F.

4. Fertilize the butterfly orchid every 3 weeks with an orchid fertilizer designed especially for orchids.

5. Inspect regularly for scale and mealybugs. The pests can be found underneath the leaves and on the stems. The mealybugs leave small objects that look like cotton balls. Scale is oval-shaped bugs that usually don't move. Use a soapy rag to gently clean away the pests. Continue weekly until the orchid is pest free.

Tips & Warnings

• Allowing the orchid soil to dry completely over time will cause yellowing leaves.

References

• Encyclia Care