Pecteilis sagarikii and Habenaria myriotricha Ground Orchids

[Cjcorner]

Pecteilis sagarikii, ground orchid from Thailand
Habenaria myriotricha, ground orchid from Thailand

I jumped into the deep end and need some advice on these ground orchid "bulbs". I ordered these from Thailand and would appreciate a few suggestions from my seasoned orchid growers. I received three small bulbs for both the Pecteilis and Habenaria each. I understand I should make up a special mix of peat moss, bark and potting soil. An online site recommended to use very little, a few pieces, of a time released fertiliser....so is it okay if I use miricle gro potting soil?? Would it be better if I dug up some of my sandy dirt from the front flower box? Also, these things are so small, roughly an inch or two across, I am wondering how big the pot should be?? Also; as to the pot, should it be plastic or would clay be better?? Before planting, should I soak them? If so, should I put anything in the water? I read that they should only receive a few drops of water this time of year....
Obviously, i've been doing some research. But if someone actually grows these I would greatly appreciate your words of wisdom. I have most of my stuff in the house right now, relying on the big front picture window for sunlight....will the higher indoor temps start these little things growing faster than they should?? As soon as the temps stay above 55 at night for a week or longer on the forecast the other orchids will be going back outside to the front porch.
Thank You for your help all....I would really like to see these become healthy flowering plants that I can someday split and share with my friends.
Connie

[Cjcorner]

Noone raises these???? I'm in trouble....

[Becky15349]

Hey connie!! I really don't know the detailed specifics about these two in particular, but let's think about where they came from....thailand. Probably muggy soil, high humidity areas, rain fairly consistently..... what i would do is make a loose soil, add some bark chips, don't let it get too compacted, and yes, I would add some time-release fertilzer to the mix. I betcha a soil environment with the consistency of mulch or a little finer would work well for these...but that is just my guess, based on their origin. Sorry I can't be of much help

[Brutal_Dreamer]

I know someone that may have some suggestions. Olin, here on the forum, has extensive knowledge of terrestrial (native) orchids. He has transplanted many and grows some varieties of ground orchids (though I am not sure which ones.) You could try to send him a PM. Maybe he could help?

Cheers,
BD

[Lambert]

Connie, I have ordered some Habenaria bulbs as well, I will PM you a link to some Habenaria growing tips that I have found on an online site ... it's pretty thorough.

[ang709]

I don't grow this one myself, but Prem had posted pictures of Habenaria rhodocheila and in one of the posts gave specifics of the culture.

[Cjcorner]

Thanx All...phew