Growing Masdevallias in an apartment?

[ang709]

Is anyone here able to grow and bloom Masdevallias in their house or apartment? I was thinking of trying one out, but I read that they like to go down to 55 on winter nights. Since my apartment will not be that cool, and I don't have a greenhouse or even a balcony for cool evenings, I realize I may have to rule out this genera. However, the book seemed to be speaking primarily of species, maybe the hybrids are more warmth tolerant? Should I try one or not? All advice is welcome.

[Jose R. Nieves]

It would help to know what else are you growing. What kind of lights are you using etc.
Jose

[ang709]

I have east facing windows with no obstructions. I use no supplementary lights, but my understanding is that Masdevallias don't want a lot of light anyway. I grow more orchids than I bloom. My success so far has been with warm or intermediate growers. Currently blooming or in spike (all earned, not bought this way) I have an Oncidium, Bolopetalum, a nodosa cross, a Psychopsis, a Haraella, and a Dendrobium. I've also successfully bloomed Phals, Paphs, and a hybrid known as Laeliocatarthron. I've not managed to bloom a Cattleya species yet. Hope this info helps describe my conditions better.

[Raver]

The temperature by the window will be a bit cooler than the rest of the apt. especially if they are right next to the window. The only problem with the masdies is that they need a lot of humidity. It wouldnt hurt to try

[Brutal_Dreamer]

The temperature by the window will be a bit cooler than the rest of the apt. especially if they are right next to the window. The only problem with the masdies is that they need a lot of humidity. It wouldnt hurt to try

Give it a go. There are some amazing Masdevallias out there.

cheers,
BD

[zrhanson]

I'd give it a try! A Masdie is the next on my list now! I'm thinking about a Masd. Minarett... I just love the look of those things!

[kiwiorchids]

Well masdes like it cold and moist-if you can recreate that, then by all means!

[Jose R. Nieves]

Al that you have bloomed is warm growing. There are some masdevalias considered "warm" and with some care may bloom for you.
Jose

[ang709]

Thank you for the replies. I will look into a warm growing Masdie.

[Brotherly Monkey]

I grow my herradurae in a PA living room. So it can deal with temps in the low 90's, but I take care never to let the general humidity drop below 30-35% (though it's nestled in between a bunch of plants, so imagine the humidity around it is a bit higher)