Zygopetalum Orchids Bloom Better with Short Days

January 21, 2019

Many orchids are day-neutral- meaning they do not require a specific photoperiod (hours of light/dark), to produce flowers. They instead flower in response to cooling temperatures in fall and winter.

Zygopetalums are one of my favorite orchids; their flowers have a wonderful fragrance.
PC: Leslie F. Halleck

Some orchid types, such as Zygopetalum spp, may not require short days to bloom, but can flower faster and better when grown under short days combined with cool temperatures. That makes them facultative short-day plants.

New BOOK! Gardening Under Lights: The Complete Guide for Indoor Growers

Back to top

Tips in your inbox

E-Newsletter

Sign up for my monthly E-Newsletter for botanical business news, horticulture courses, and tidbits for plant and gardening lovers!