Van Dycks

Pleione formosaPleione formosa is native to the higher altitudes in China and the Himalayans, but are only hardy to approximately 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit (zone 8-10) in winter in the home garden environment.

It is often grown by orchid enthusiasts as a container plant, but being a terrestrial orchid (one that grows on the ground) it is perfectly suited to being planted in the ground.

It needs very well-draining humus-rich soil. You can amend soil with well-rotted compost and perlite or small sharp gravel to improve drainage.

Choose a bright garden spot, this plant is not bothered by lots of sun. However, if you live in a dry climate with baking sun in the summer you might want to pick a location that receives some protection from mid-day sun.

The experts recommend watering sparingly in spring until the plant has formed a good root system.

At that point you can begin watering it regularly. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every other week.

They are spring bloomers and may not bloom for you this year, but should bloom next year.

The orchid requires a dormant resting period in the winter. To instigate dormancy begin to withhold water and decrease fertilizer amounts in the fall.

When the leaves have turned yellow and begin to dieback clip them to the ground.

When the first frost of the fall is imminent apply a lightweight free draining mulch over the plant. You want to be sure that the mulch will provide protection from the cold, but will not hold water on the crown of the plant. Hay or straw are good mulch options.

Keep an eye on the spot next spring. After the danger of frost has passed and they break dormancy remove the extra mulch and add a light layer of well-rotted compost around the plant.

Start the watering and fertilizing again.

If they are given plenty of nutrients and water they should multiply easily for you.