Hi, I am not even a beginner of growing orchid yet, but am expecting my first (Zygopetalum Bright Imagination 'Master Ian') from Ahtanum Orchid (WA). I hope I make no mistake to start this thread in violating some rule(s) in this forum. But if I do, please remove my post to whatever thread that fit my questions and asked help. Thanks.
First I learned that this orchid (zygo) need non-direct bright sunlight for about 16 hrs a day. I am concerned about the place it will reside (in dinning area, inside of south-facing window with trees outside blocking direct sunlight) may not be exposed to very bright and very long indirect sunlight. So I set up the dinning light with five of LED bulb (each replace 60W for 6.5W and give 500 lum brightness: total 300W for 33W, 2500 lum) and I think it will do fine. Now the question: How long and when the supplementary light will be needed every day? Certainly I don't expect to turn it on when I get up in the morning and turn off when go sleep at night? My thought is turning on before dusk and off when go sleep (~5 hrs). One thing bothering me is that turning off at late night and it become totally dark (only some dim night light from outside) could have the zygo under some kind of "lighting shock" (kind like thermal shock as a rapid change from very bright to total darkness)? Will that harm the orchid (and other plants)? Any idea or thought?
Second, it need good air circulation/movement. So I prepare a small air circulation fan that provide air flow directing from near above ground to vertically up (to ceiling). The question: which is the best direction of air flow to set for the orchid: mainly to the wall with angle or to the ceiling with/without angle? When will be the time to operate the fan? 24/7? or ???
Third, according to some growing guide for zygo the nighttime temp for best bloom is 60-65F (some even advise 55-60), does it mean heater need to be set below 65 in the winter? ...
Again thanks for all advice/help.
