Discover the 10 Best Vanda Orchid Varieties for Your Garden

Discover the 10 Best Vanda Orchid Varieties for Your Garden

Vanda orchids are renowned for their vibrant colours, unique patterns, and long-lasting blooms. Known for their air-loving roots and impressive flower spikes, these orchids can be a stunning addition to any garden. If you’re looking to enhance your garden with some of the best Vanda varieties, here are ten that stand out for their beauty and resilience.

1. Vanda coerulea (Blue Vanda)

Known for its mesmerising blue hues, Vanda coerulea is one of the most sought-after orchids. Its delicate blooms and striking colour make it a favourite among orchid enthusiasts.

2. Vanda Miss Joaquim (Singapore’s National Flower)

A hybrid orchid, Vanda Miss Joaquim, is celebrated for its resilience and prolific flowering. Its stunning pink and purple flowers make it a great choice for gardens in tropical climates.

3. Vanda tricolour

As its name suggests, Vanda tricolour boasts a beautiful mix of colours in its blooms. The flowers typically display a combination of white, yellow, and purple, making them a captivating addition to any garden.

4. Vanda tessellata (checkered Vanda)

This orchid variety is known for its unique checkered pattern on the petals. Vanda tessellata is not only visually appealing but also hardy, making it suitable for various growing conditions.

5. Vanda dearei

Vanda dearei is prized for its fragrant yellow flowers. Its delightful scent and bright blooms can bring a touch of sunshine to any garden space.

6. Vanda Robert’s Delight

This hybrid variety is known for its large, vibrant flowers that come in an array of colours, from deep purples to bright reds. Vanda Robert’s Delight is perfect for gardeners looking for a show-stopping plant.

7. Vanda Pachara Delight

With its stunning blue-violet flowers, Vanda Pachara Delight is a popular choice for orchid collectors. The flowers are large and long-lasting, adding a touch of elegance to your garden.

8. Vanda Motes, Indigo

Renowned for its deep indigo blooms, Vanda Motes Indigo can add a dramatic flair to your garden. The rich colour of its flowers makes it stand out among other orchids.

9. Vanda Pure’s Wax

This variety features waxy, long-lasting flowers that are typically bright red or orange. Vanda Pure’s Wax is not only beautiful but also relatively easy to care for, making it ideal for beginners.

10. Vanda Fuchs Delight

A hybrid with strikingly vivid flowers, Vanda Fuchs Delight offers a range of colours from pink to purple. Its large, showy blooms are sure to catch the eye and add a vibrant touch to your garden.

Vanda coerulea (Blue Vanda)

Vanda coerulea, commonly known as the Blue Vanda, is one of the most admired orchid species, renowned for its striking blue blooms. This orchid originates from the northeastern regions of India and neighbouring areas, where it grows in the cool, mountainous forests.

Flower Colour: Blue Vanda is famous for its rare and captivating blue flowers, which can vary from a light sky blue to a deep violet blue. This unique colour is not commonly found in many orchid species, making Vanda coerulea highly prized.

Flower Size: The blooms are relatively large, often measuring 5–10 cm in diameter, and are borne on long, elegant spikes that can carry multiple flowers.

Blooming Season: Vanda coerulea typically blooms in the autumn, although with proper care, it can flower multiple times a year.

Fragrance: Some specimens of Vanda coerulea are mildly fragrant, adding to their appeal.

Growing Conditions
Special Considerations

Light Requirements for Vanda Orchids

Proper lighting is crucial for the healthy growth and blooming of Vanda orchids. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to provide the right light conditions for your Vandas:

Bright, indirect light.

Intensity: Vanda orchids thrive in bright, indirect light. Compared to many other orchid species, they demand more light. They should ideally get between 50 and 70 percent of direct sunshine.

Location: Place your Vandas near a south- or east-facing window where they can receive ample light without being exposed to direct midday sun. West-facing windows can also work but may require some shading to prevent leaf burn.

Direct Sunlight

Morning Sun: Vandas can handle some direct morning sunlight, which is generally less intense and can help promote robust growth and flowering. However, direct afternoon sun should be avoided, as it can be too harsh and may scorch the leaves.

Outdoor Growing: If you grow your Vandas outdoors, place them in a spot where they receive filtered sunlight, such as under a shade cloth or beneath the canopy of a tree. This mimics their natural habitat, where they receive dappled light through the forest canopy.

Signs of Proper Light

Leaf Colour: Healthy Vanda leaves should be a bright green. If the leaves are dark green, it indicates insufficient light. On the other hand, yellowish-green or reddish leaves can signal too much light.

Flowering: Adequate light is essential for flowering. Your Vanda may not be receiving enough light if it is not flowering.

Adjusting light levels 

Supplemental Lighting: In areas with limited natural light, especially during the winter months, you can use grow lights to supplement your Vandas’ light requirements. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and can provide the necessary light spectrum for orchid growth.

Shading: If your Vandas are exposed to too much direct sunlight, use sheer curtains, blinds, or shade cloth to diffuse the light and protect the plants from sunburn.

Monitoring and adapting

Observation: Regularly observe your Vandas to ensure they are receiving the right amount of light. Adjust their placement or the intensity of supplemental lighting as needed based on their growth and leaf coloration.

Seasonal Changes: Pay attention to how the length and intensity of the light vary with the seasons.

You may need to move your Vandas or adjust their light exposure throughout the year to maintain optimal growing conditions.

By providing the right light conditions, you can ensure your Vanda orchids thrive and produce their stunning blooms. Bright, indirect light is key to their health and vibrant appearance, making them a striking feature in your garden or home.

Watering Vanda Orchids

Proper watering is essential for the health and vitality of Vanda orchids. 

Because their roots are exposed and they are epiphytic, these orchids require special care when it comes to watering.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to water your Vanda orchids effectively:

Frequency of Watering

Daily Misting: Vanda orchids benefit from daily misting, especially in warmer climates or during the growing season. Use a fine mist spray bottle to lightly mist the roots, ensuring they receive moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Deep Watering: In addition to misting, provide a thorough watering 2-3 times a week. This involves soaking the roots completely. You can achieve this by placing the orchid in a sink or basin and running lukewarm water over the roots for several minutes.

Water Quality

Purity: Use rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis (RO) water if possible. Tap water can contain minerals and chemicals that might build up in the roots and harm the plant over time.

Temperature: Ensure the water is at room temperature to avoid shocking the roots. Cold water can stress the plant, while hot water can damage the roots.

Method of Watering

Soaking: For a thorough soak, immerse the roots in water for about 15–20 minutes. This allows the roots to absorb moisture effectively. After soaking, let the roots dry completely before the next watering to prevent root rot.

Spraying: Use a spray bottle or a hose with a fine mist setting to spray the roots daily. This mimics the natural environment where Vandas receive frequent light rain and dew.

Monitoring root health

Colour and texture: Healthy Vanda roots are thick, white or green, and firm. If the roots appear shrivelled, dry, or brown, it indicates insufficient watering. Conversely, blackened or mushy roots suggest overwatering and potential root rot.

Air Circulation: Ensure good air circulation around the roots to help them dry out between waterings. This is crucial for preventing fungal and bacterial infections.

Environmental Factors

Humidity: Vanda orchids thrive in high-humidity environments (50–70%). If you live in a dry climate, consider using a humidity tray, a room humidifier, or grouping plants together to increase the humidity around your Vandas.

Seasonal Adjustments: During the growing season (spring and summer), Vandas require more frequent watering. In the cooler months (fall and winter), reduce the frequency as the plant’s growth slows down.

Signs of Proper Watering

Leaf Health: Well-hydrated Vanda orchids have firm, turgid leaves. Limp or wrinkled leaves often indicate a lack of water.

Flowering: Adequate watering promotes healthy blooms. If your Vanda is not flowering, reassess your watering schedule and ensure the roots are receiving enough moisture.

By following these watering guidelines, you can ensure that your Vanda orchids receive the proper care they need to flourish. Regular monitoring and adjusting your watering practices based on the orchid’s condition will help maintain a healthy, vibrant plant that will reward you with beautiful blooms.

Temperature Requirements for Vanda Orchids

Vanda orchids have specific temperature preferences that are crucial for their health and blooming. Here’s a detailed guide to managing temperatures for your Vanda orchids:

Ideal Temperature Range

Daytime Temperatures: Vanda orchids thrive in daytime temperatures ranging from 70–85°F (21–29°C). They can tolerate higher temperatures up to 90°F (32°C) if humidity levels are high and they are adequately watered.

Nighttime Temperatures: Nighttime temperatures should ideally drop by about 10-15°F (5-8°C) compared to daytime temperatures.Try to keep the temperature at 60–70°F (15–21°C) at night.

Seasonal Adjustments

Summer: During the warmer months, provide good air circulation and avoid direct midday sun, which can cause leaf burn. Use shade cloth or sheer curtains to diffuse intense sunlight and reduce temperature fluctuations.

Winter: In cooler climates or during the winter, ensure Vanda orchids are protected from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops. Maintain a minimum temperature of 55°F (13°C) to prevent damage to the plant.

Temperature Sensitivity

Frost Protection: Vanda orchids are sensitive to frost and temperatures below 50°F (10°C). If grown outdoors in temperate climates, bring them indoors or provide adequate frost protection during the colder months.

Adaptability: While Vandas prefer warm temperatures, they can adapt to slightly cooler conditions for short periods. Prolonged exposure to temperatures outside their preferred range can affect growth and flowering.

Growing Conditions

Indoor Cultivation: Indoors, place Vanda orchids near east- or south-facing windows where they can receive bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them near heating or cooling vents, as this can lead to temperature fluctuations.

Outdoor Cultivation: If growing Vandas outdoors, choose a sheltered location that receives filtered sunlight, such as under a tree canopy or on a patio. Monitor weather conditions and provide shade during hot summer days.

Monitoring and adjustments

Temperature Monitoring: Regularly check temperatures around your Vanda orchids using a thermometer. Adjust their location or provide additional protection during extreme weather conditions.

Seasonal Care: Modify your care routine based on seasonal temperature changes. During heatwaves or cold spells, take extra precautions to ensure your orchids remain within their optimal temperature range.

By maintaining suitable temperature levels and adapting care as needed, you can create favourable conditions for your Vanda orchids to thrive and produce stunning blooms. Consistent attention to temperature, along with proper light, watering, and humidity, will contribute to the overall health and beauty of your orchids.

Fertilising Vanda Orchids

Fertilising Vanda orchids is essential to promoting healthy growth, robust root development, and vibrant blooms. Here’s a detailed guide on how to fertilise your Vanda orchids effectively:

Types of Fertiliser

Balanced Fertiliser: Use a balanced orchid fertiliser with an equal ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), such as 20-20-20 or 15-15-15. This ensures your orchids receive essential nutrients for overall growth and flowering.

Frequency: During the active growing season (typically spring and summer), fertilise your Vanda orchids every two weeks. Reduce fertilisation frequency to once a month during the fall and winter months when growth slows down.

Application Method 

Liquid Fertiliser: Dilute the orchid fertiliser to half or quarter strength, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply the fertiliser solution directly to the roots and growing medium.

Foliar Feeding: Optionally, you can spray a diluted fertiliser solution directly onto the leaves of your Vanda orchids. This method allows the plant to absorb nutrients through its foliage.

Timing and Considerations

After Watering: Fertilise your Vanda orchids after watering or misting to avoid burning the roots with concentrated fertiliser.

Flush with Water: Once a month, flush the growing medium with plain water to remove any fertiliser salts that may accumulate and potentially harm the roots.

Specialised Formulations: Consider using specialised orchid fertilisers that are formulated specifically for Vanda orchids. These may contain additional micronutrients tailored to the needs of orchids.

Monitoring and adjustments

Leaf and Root Health: Monitor the health of your Vanda orchids regularly.
Strong, white, or green roots and vivid green foliage are signs of health. Adapt the timing and strength of your fertiliser to the plant’s growth and reaction.

Seasonal Adjustments: Modify your fertilising routine based on seasonal changes in growth and environmental conditions. Reduce fertilisation during periods of dormancy or reduced growth.

Additional Tips

Organic Options: If you prefer organic fertilisers, look for options that are specifically formulated for orchids or are suitable for epiphytic plants.

Watering Before Fertilising: Always water or mist your Vanda orchids before applying fertiliser to ensure the roots are hydrated and ready to absorb nutrients.

By following these guidelines for fertilising your Vanda orchids, you can provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive and reward you with healthy growth and beautiful blooms. Consistent and careful fertilisation will contribute to the overall vitality and longevity of your orchids.