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What do you grow and how?

Discussion in 'Introduce Yourself' started by ldkobzeff, Feb 9, 2012.

  1. Feb 9, 2012 #1
    ldkobzeff

    ldkobzeff Member

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    Location:
    Downey, California
    So New here and im curious what you guys grow and how you grow them, whether it's in an orchidarium, or green house, or whatever. Im looking at what equipment i need to expand my collection. (as well as what plants i can grow with my current setup) At the moment i have about 280 pots with about 70 different hybrids of Cymbidiums and Paphiopedilums, (about a 80/20 split between the two) which i inherited from my grandparents. (which is a stressful way to get into the orchid hobby) Im in The Los Angels area so im able to grow out doors in a shade housed.(which is on the west side of a building)

    Thanks
    Lucas
     
  2. Feb 9, 2012 #2
    Uluwehi

    Uluwehi angraecoids, dendrobiums and more Supporting Member

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    Hi Lucas and welcome to OI! You've come to the right place. You'll find lots of valuable information and pictures from talented seasoned growers and newbies alike if you take time to go through older threads. There are quite a few excellent discussions and pictures of growing areas, check it out :) :poke:

    Why your inherited collection of Cymbidium and Paphiopedilum hybrids stressful? Is it the re-potting? I would find that tedious since I grow most of my plants mounted.
     
  3. Feb 10, 2012 #3
    ldkobzeff

    ldkobzeff Member

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    Location:
    Downey, California
    mostly its just the shear size of the collection... coupled with having to build the shade house and stands, and the space restrictions i face. I am the only one in my family taking care of them + im a student so finding time for watering them, (which i am currently doing by hand) re-potting as well a general care and dividing them gets to be a little much. To be honest i find it on the whole to be pleasant but there are times where i get a little overwhelmed, mostly around spring when its time to divide and re-pot (I sometimes wish i started with 1/3 of the plants i have now.) but enough about me.

    What are you growing? i always wanted to grow mounted orchids but have been to afraid to buy any, because i hear then need alot of attention. Is that true? Are you growing out doors or in a green house or in a orchidarium (which i just found out about and i think its freaking cool!)
     
  4. Feb 13, 2012 #4
    Tristan C

    Tristan C New Member

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    Location:
    San Francisco
    Idkobzeff, I grow mounted plants in two modified fishtanks under T5 lights. My set up is as basic as can be (especially compared to other people here!), I use computer fans to keep the air movement - essential to avoid rot - and I mist daily by hand. I've had a lot of success with this, but it does take a bit of daily attention. I also grow plants both in my windows and under a bigger bank of t5 lights.

    You're both lucky and unlucky to have inherited such a large collection! I started with just a few plants and now have over 100 - but many of them are miniatures as I live in an apartment. If I were in your position, I'd absolutely focus on building the shade house and figuring out the plants who will be happy out there.

    -Tristan