Sarchochilus Orchid Care
Indoors in the Northern Hemisphere
Sarchochilus Orchid Care
Indoors in the Northern Hemisphere
Sarcocchilus orchids, native to Australia, are epiphytic and thrive indoors in the Northern Hemisphere with proper care. Below is a concise guide to growing them successfully:
Requirement: Bright, indirect light (1,000–2,000 foot-candles). East or west-facing windows are ideal, or use sheer curtains to filter strong south-facing light.
Tip: Supplement with LED grow lights (10–12 hours daily) during shorter winter days to mimic their natural environment. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Day: 65–75°F (18–24°C).
Night: 55–65°F (13–18°C). Sarcocchilus prefer cooler nights, especially in fall to stimulate blooming.
Tip: Maintain a 10–15°F (5–8°C) day-night temperature drop. Avoid placing near heaters or drafty windows in winter.
Requirement: 50–70%. Higher humidity encourages healthy growth.
Tip: Use a humidity tray with pebbles and water or a room humidifier. Grouping plants can also increase local humidity.
Frequency: Water every 4–7 days, allowing the potting medium to slightly dry out between waterings. Reduce slightly in winter.
Method: Use room-temperature, distilled, or rainwater. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Tip: Mist leaves lightly in dry indoor conditions, but avoid wetting flowers to prevent fungal issues.
Medium: Use a well-draining mix like fine-grade orchid bark, sphagnum moss, or a blend with perlite. Sarcocchilus have fine roots, so avoid coarse mixes.
Pot: Small, shallow pots or mounts (e.g., cork or tree fern slabs) work well due to their compact root systems.
Repotting: Repot every 1–2 years after blooming, when new growth begins, to refresh the medium.
Type: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) diluted to ¼–½ strength.
Frequency: Feed weekly during active growth (spring–summer); reduce to monthly in fall–winter.
Tip: Flush the pot with plain water monthly to prevent salt buildup.
Requirement: Good air movement prevents fungal issues and mimics their natural habitat.
Tip: Use a small fan on low speed to maintain gentle airflow, especially in humid conditions.
Season: Typically spring to early summer, though some hybrids bloom year-round.
Tip: Cooler night temperatures in fall (50–55°F or 10–13°C) for 4–6 weeks can trigger flowering. Avoid sudden temperature changes.
Overwatering: Leads to root rot. Ensure pots have drainage holes and never let them sit in water.
Low Light: Causes weak growth and poor blooming. Adjust light if leaves are dark green (too shady) or yellowing (too bright).
Pests: Watch for spider mites, scale, or aphids. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Winter: Shorter days and lower humidity require supplemental lighting and humidifiers. Monitor indoor heating, which can dry out plants.
Summer: Protect from intense summer sun. Increase watering slightly if temperatures rise but maintain good drainage.
Sarcocchilus are sensitive to overwatering and poor air circulation, so prioritize drainage and airflow.
Hybrids like Sarcocchilus hartmannii or Sarcocchilus fitzgeraldii are more forgiving for beginners.
If you’re in a particularly dry or cold climate, consider a small indoor greenhouse or terrarium to stabilize conditions.