Ron-NY grows this plant (Max Variabilis 1, Max Variabilis 2), so he will probably be able to help. What I found with my one Max is that it needs a bit higher light levels than say an oncidium. I water and feed on a regular schedule letting it dry almost completely out before watering again. My little Max. tenuifolia put out a bloom this year for the first time. Good luck with your
Variabilis.

Cheers,
BD