Intergeneric hybrids are orchids developed from different cross-bred orchids. Intergeneric orchids are then some of the most beautiful, long-lasting and fragrant of all orchids. Then tend to have beautiful, evergreen plants, long-lasting blooms on single or multiple spikes, and vary greatly in size, shape and color.

Water

Some Orchids, dendrobiums in particular, like to dry out after being watered thoroughly. Oncidiums, however, do not like to dry out. The type of planting media we use will not allow you to overwater the plant, as the media retains the right amount of water. You can put the plant in the sink and water the plant so that water runs out the bottom of the pot. Water the plant at least once a week or more. You can use a popcycle stick or other clean, piece of wood to insert carefully into the media. You will be able to see how much moisture is in the media by the moisture on the stick. Oncidiums prefer rain water which has very little mineral content. You can either collect rain water, storing it in glass jars out of the sun or use distilled or "machine" distilled (reverse osmosis) water. Do not use softened water, as it contains salt.

Fertilizer

Fertilize monthly with a high-quality orchid food. You can usually find high-quality orchid foods at your local garden center or nursery. Liquid foods mix well with water. Follow the directions on the package or bottle of orchid fertilizer. Be careful not to overfeed orchids. More orchids die from "loving them too much" than from neglect.

Light

Intergeneric hybrids vary greatly in their need for light. It's best to experiment with the placement of your orchid for the best light conditions. They tend to like indirect and even amounts of sunlight. If you live in Northern latitudes you might consider artificial lighting to provide an even amount of light. Orchids grow well under artificial gro-lights.

Temperature

Ideal temperatures for intergeneric orchids range between 70° and 85°F. Orchids like light air flow but not strong drafts. Make sure to keep orchids away from windows if you live in cold temperatures, as the cold will transfer from the window and freeze the plant. Many varieties are cold-tolerant, but none will tolerate freezing.

Humidity

Orchids are tropical rainforest plants and like 50% humidity or higher. Intergeneric orchids can tolerate lower humidity. You will have happier orchids with higher humidity. Keep orchids away from heaters and dehumidifiers. Putting them in the bathroom for humidity occasionally sometimes helps in lower humidity areas.

Flowering

Intergeneric orchids offer a wide variety of blossom shapes, colors and sizes. If cared for, they will often bloom twice a year. Blooms generally last about one or two months.

The variety of intergeneric orchids and the conditions in your home or office makes it impossible to know exactly how long a bloom will last. But, orchid blooms last longer than just about any other flowering plant.

Repotting

Intergeneric plants do well in New Zealand orchid bark medium available from Greenhouse Specialists. Younger orchids grow well in New Zealand sphagnum moss.

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