Read more of Cultivation of Rangaeris muscicola (Rchb.f.) Summerh.
Light:
1500-2500 fc. Light should be filtered or diffused, and plants should not be exposed to direct midday sun. Strong air movement should be provided at all times.
Temperatures:
Summer days average 74-79F (23-26C), and nights average 54-55F (12-13C), with a diurnal range of 19-24F (11-13C). Because of the range in habitat elevation, plants should adapt to conditions up to 6F (3C) warmer or cooler than indicated.
Humidity:
55-65% for about 2 months in late winter and early spring and again for 2-3 months in summer. Averages increase to 70-75% for the remainder of the year. Averages in the habitat may be somewhat greater than indicated in the preceding climate table, however.
Water:
There are two wet/dry cycles during the year, with a dry season in winter and early spring followed by a fairly short, 2- to 3-month wet season in late spring and early summer. This is followed by a rather short somewhat drier season in summer and then by a 3-month wet season in autumn. Cultivated plant should be watered heavily while actively growing, but they must be able to dry rather quickly after watering.
Fertilizer:
1/4-1/2 recommended strength, applied weekly when plants are actively growing. Many growers prefer to use a balanced fertilizer throughout the year; but others use a high-nitrogen fertilizer from spring to midsummer, then switch to one high in phosphates in late summer and autumn.
Rest period:
Winter days average 69-70F (21C), and nights average 51-53F (11-12C), with a diurnal range of 17-18F (9-10C). Growers are reminded that these plants should adapt to conditions up to 6F (3C) warmer or cooler than indicated in the preceding climate table. Water should be reduced for cultivated plants during the winter dry season, but plants should not be allowed to remain completely without water for long periods. Occasional early morning mistings between infrequent light waterings should provide sufficient moisture in most growing areas. Isobyl & Eric La Croix (1997) reported that plants should be kept drier in winter. Water should be reduced for plants during the secondary dry season in summer, but plants should not be allowed to become as dry as during the more severe winter dry period. Fertilizer should be reduced or eliminated when water is reduced.
Growing media:
Isobyl & Eric La Croix (1997) reported that these plants may be gown mounted, but growth is more vigorous if they are grown in a container. If grown in a container, a coarse mix is necessary.
References:
This information is quoted from a Charles and Margaret Baker culture sheet, with permission from Troy Meyers
