Oncidium orchids are one of the most diverse and oldest types of orchids on the planet. They were once described as demanding and needy. Today, they have been cultivated anywhere where the temperature is moderate and cool. They are in reality easy to cultivate (if you know what to do), and they grow flowers that are vibrant and sweet-smelling.

These kinds of plants mostly bloom once a year with colors varying from white to dark red. Their flowers are many times described as butterfly look-a-likes or dancing ladies. If you want to grow healthy oncidium orchids, here are the 8 dangers to avoid when growing them:

Providing too much light. Oncidiums are a particularly tricky kind of orchid when it comes to light requirements. Usually they need direct sunlight for several hours when they are starting to grow and produce blooms.

Once the blooms come in, you should transfer your oncidium to a colder area where there is no direct sunlight to burn its flowers. The oncidium hybrids, though, are different. They need filtered light to develop and grow.

Overwatering. Overwatering and under-watering are the most usual mistakes when it comes to any orchids. While oncidiums have quite different moisture needs during their stages of growth, they should never be overwatered.

Here is the general rule of thumb you should follow to water your plants the right way. When they are starting to grow and beginning to bloom, provide a generous amount of water. After they blossom, give them less.

Their roots like water but you must give the proper drainage or the roots will drown and die. If you see the top compost is becoming dry, then it is a sign that it must be watered again.

Putting them in one place for the rest of the year. Leaving these kinds of plants in just one location all throughout the year is dangerous. Every summer they can be placed outdoors to soak in adequate sunlight and during winters they must be kept in places such as greenhouses or orchid cases.

They flourish best in areas where the temperature is between 80°F -85°F during the day and 55°F-60°F at night.

Not providing with the proper humidity levels. When it comes to humidity levels, oncidium orchids need 40%-50%. When it's hot, be sure to raise the humidity level by misting or by creating a bed of pebbles with water on a tray below the orchid. The perfect humidity level for these types of orchids is between 55%-75%.

Using the wrong potting medium. Choosing the wrong potting medium can be harmful to the growth of your oncidiums. These kinds of orchids, when grown in cultivation or even in the wild for that matter, have a very healthy appetite when it comes to food. Although they can flourish and thrive when grown in leafmold compost, you should still use the best medium for epiphytes, which is osmunda.

Osmunda is great for orchids with very thin root systems, as most oncidiums have. Its fibers are great for giving them the proper drainage for the orchid. If feasible, put as little compost as possible. It doesn't need a lot, or the plant will drown in its medium.

Put the medium around the roots of the plant and don't force it all in. Leave it loose so that air can circulate through it. You can build a layer of rock at the base of the pot or a thin layer of gravel at the top of the compost for extra support.

Potting them incorrectly. When it comes to pots, it is never wise to get a big one for oncidiums. These orchids are the types of orchids that do well in tiny, confined pots. Actually the smaller the size of the pot, the better. Big pots leave the compost wet and overly damp. This is not good for the roots because it will easily cause them to rot.

Over-fertilizing. Because oncidium orchids are insatiable when it comes to plant food, you should give them regular fertilization or they'll be unhealthy. Feed them once each month with either liquid fertilizer or ground manure, and they will thrive. Be sure to wash off any salt deposits after each month to avoid burning their roots.

Repotting. Excessive and untimely repotting can destroy any orchid. But because these types of orchids have very thin and short roots, repotting them can be a tricky job. Repot them every two years or so, and yours will be content. Be sure to provide them with enough water after repotting to ensure the growth of their roots.

Knowing these 8 dangers to avoid will allow your oncidium orchids to thrive to their fullest potential and save you a lot of time and hassle.