Milts - your thoughts about species

[TundraKev]

I like Milt hybrids. I always have. Got my first two probably 6-7 years ago and have never tired of them. As an added bonus, they seem to do well for me. Whenever I look around to see what various place have to offer, I find myself liking all the ones I see.

For some reason, the species have never caught my attention like the hybrids do. I’m not exactly sure why this is because as a very general rule, I do prefer most species over hybrids. At least, that’s the direction I have been going.

Anyway, I was hoping to hear from folks who grow both or even just the species and could tell me what I’m missing. I would assume that at least some of the species would be more exacting in their requirements, but are there some that you consider just so cool that they are worth the extra effort?

I did see a Milt phalaenopsis in bloom this past week at a local orchid GH and was really tempted to get it until I saw the price – a 3 inch pot was something like $45-50. Needless to say, I kept on walking.

Kev

[MikeWA]

I agree with you. I have the species just to have them. The hybrids are very stunning.

If I was to tell you to have one species, it would be this one.
http://albums.photo.epson.com/j/View...806&p=64511663

Miltoniopsis santanaei

The fragrance is truly unbeatable and many hybridizers use it for the fragrance alone.

You need this one!

[TundraKev]

OH YES!!

That is a looker for sure. I know you grow a lot of these, so it's good to hear that I may have not been totally off base about my assessment. It's interesting you picked that one as a fav. The coloration is very similar to a hybrid I have that is also one of my favorites - pure white with that touch of yellow in the center. The overall shape of the flower is very different,though. I like yours a lot.

I'm glad people haven't mucked up these yet. With so many hybrid things, the flowers just keep getting weirder and weirder. Milts just keep getting better and better.

[Sue]

Kev; I've noticed the same thing. Miltonia just seem to get better and much more interesting through hybridization. With each other at least . . . that's another weird thing; when they get crossed with anything else, all the Milt parent seems to contribute is lip coloration. Although I guess the lip does enlarge a bit.

Anyhow. I don't really have anything to add here except that the same thing had occured to me.

[TundraKev]

Kev; I've noticed the same thing. Miltonia just seem to get better and much more interesting through hybridization.

Anyhow. I don't really have anything to add here except that the same thing had occured to me.

Well Sue, it's always nice to hear someone else confirm the same thoughts. I appreciate it at least.

Kev

[LJA]

Sigh.... I sometimes really wish our temps were cooler here--unfortunately, at the height of summer, Milts just broil for us unless they're smack in front of the cool cell, and there's only so much space there....

[MikeWA]

Rubbing it in Louis


http://albums.photo.epson.com/j/View...806&p=64272965

[Piper]

Oh, that's not nice...

Julie

[TundraKev]

Just plain evil. Where's that Roundup?



k

[LJA]

Devil spawn. I knew it....

You lucky dog.....