Question
QUESTION: hello, the last time I used all experts I talked with Wayne King.  My orchid has not bloomed since I got it at my sisters funeral two years ago.  He suggested I put it out side on my porch but the leaves are pale which I think it is getting to much sun.  It does get the late afternooon sun what should I do?  The orchid looked healthier  when it was inside.

ANSWER: Hello Whitney,

Wayne King gave you some good advice but it appears he didn't tell you to place it where it gets morning sun with semi-shade the rest of the day or semi-shade all day.  Also, depending upon where you live helps determine how much sunlight it should be exposed to.  When receiving proper light exposure the leaves should be a medium to light green color, dark green indicates too much shade while yellowish to pale green too much sun.  

Has it been growing well otherwise?  I hope it has.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: My porch only faces west which gets the hot afternoon sun.  My back deck which faces the east and gets the morning sun is not covered to protect the plant.  I do have large windows facing the deck facing east should I just bring it inside.  The plant remains the same since I last talked with Wayne.  I need to repot, I know the decomposed mush is not helping the situation but there has been no new stalk since Feb. just new roots, can I go ahead and repot anyway?  How many hours of morning sun should the plant receive?  I'm afraid it is going to die.

ANSWER: Hi again Whitney,

The east facing deck should be a good place for it.  Put it where it will receive 2 to 3 hours of direct early morning sunlight then semi-shade to bright shade for the rest of the day.  

The best time to repot it is when you see new root growth activity going on, so now would be good.  If you would like some help repotting, let me know.  

Most oncidium alliance orchids bloom only once a year unless you happen to live in South Florida or other semi-tropical climates.  

Hope this helped.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Ok, but what do I do to protect the plant since I don't have a roof over the porch?  It is my understanding to repot I soak the plant for a few hours in water, remove the dead stuff as much as possible then repot in the orchid soil/bark?

Answer
Hi Whitney,

On the back deck that is facing east, put it where it will be in full sun for a couple of hours in the morning then mostly light shade the rest of the day.  Unless there are heavy rains during summer where you live, there should be no need for overhead protection.  

Your description of the repotting process is pretty good, short and simple.  I like that.  It sounds like you've done some repotting in the past.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.