The Miltonia is a very special type of orchid. The houseplant enchants with its charismatic flowers and its fine fragrance. The different names result from the shape of the flower and quickly turn the exotic beauty into an eye-catcher. Miltonia is similar to the closely related genus Miltoniopsis, whose flowering time is more in spring. An even water supply without stagnant moisture is important for care. A special resting phase is not necessary for renewed blooming.

Useful information Site care Watering Fertilizing Repotting Pests & diseases FAQ

Worth knowing about Miltonia

Botanical name: Miltonia hybrid
Other names: Miltonia, violet orchid, pansy orchid
Use: indoor plant, potted plant
Origin: tropical South America
Flowering period: autumn to spring
Flower colours: white, red, pink, violet, pink and color combinations
Special features: the flower shape is eponymous. In their homeland, the exotics grow in damp forests as perches on tree trunks and branches. This must be taken into account accordingly during maintenance.

In which location does the Miltonia feel most comfortable?

A bright place in the room without direct sun is ideal for this refined orchid species. East and west windows are well suited. If the radiation is too intense, the leaves may discolour. If the location is too dark, the potted plant suffers and does not form new panicles. From the end of May to the beginning of August it is possible to stay outside. It is important that the orchids are protected from rain and direct sunlight. From September to May, temperatures of 18 to 25 °C and humidity of 60 to 80 percent are ideal.

Our gardening tip: Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations, because the rarity is sensitive to them. Therefore, the day-night difference should not be large. Furthermore, dry heating air is not tolerated.

How do I properly care for my Miltonia?

After flowering

Dried flowers are regularly removed before they leave unsightly stains on the leaves. Another cut is not necessary. The flower stalk is only cut off when it has completely dried up, because no further pile forms on this shoot. In optimal conditions, the orchid will continue to grow and after 6 to 9 months the next stem will appear on the new thickening. A special resting phase for induction is not necessary for this group of orchids. You can buy plants online from us.

How do I water my Miltonia correctly?

Miltonia is watered regularly during the growth phase. Frequency depends on room temperature and plant size. It is important that the orchid is thoroughly moistened and excess water is poured off. Weekly diving in soft, room-warm water is ideal. Moisture should not remain in the planter or saucer after watering or dipping, and the leaf axils and shoots must also be dry, otherwise rot will occur here.

Our gardening tip: A little finesse is required when watering the Miltonia. The plant must never dry out completely. With a little experience, you can tell from the weight of the pot whether watering is necessary or whether you can wait a little longer. Miltonia react to a lack of water by wrinkling leaves and flowers.

How do I fertilize my violet orchid properly?

Fertilizing every third or fourth watering is optimal. For this purpose, orchid special fertilizer is added to the irrigation water. Only with sufficient fertilization are the violet orchids vigorous and willing to flower. In winter, the interval between fertilization can be extended to every 4 to 6 weeks. As an alternative to liquid fertilizer, fertilizer sticks are a way of supplying the beauties with nutrients. With this practical dosage form, the orchids are supplied with fertilizer for 3 months.

Our gardening tip: Dose the liquid fertilizer exactly according to the instructions on the packaging. If the dosage is too high, root damage can occur.

How do I repot my pansy orchid properly?

The pansy orchid is only transplanted when necessary. A new pot is usually necessary every 2 to 3 years. It is best to transplant after they have faded. First, the potted plant is well watered and then carefully removed from the culture pot. The new pot should only be a few centimeters larger than the previous one. Use special orchid soil for repotting. This ensures that the soil structure is optimal for the roots of the orchids. When repotting, make sure that the plant is centered and not too deep. Any cavities are carefully filled with orchid soil. Watering is not necessary immediately after transplanting, spraying the leaves can be beneficial for the regeneration of the violet orchid.

What pests and diseases can Miltonia get?

Given the right conditions and optimal care, Miltonia are easy-care plants. The following problems can still occur:

Scale and Mealybugs

Especially in phases with less light and less growth, the pansy orchid is susceptible to these annoying pests. Try to get rid of the lice on the leaves and strengthen the orchid with a tonic. In this way, the immune system is strengthened in a natural way. Substances containing paraffin oil also help to combat the pests.

Black Spots

Characteristic black spots on the leaves result from the fact that temperatures have been too low for a long time. Improve site conditions and the plant will regenerate.

accordion growth

This atypical growth form can occur as a result of too low temperatures, too little humidity and too dark a location. The conspicuous leaf deformation is the result of the care error. The leaves just wrinkle out of the base and look odd. If the conditions for the orchid are improved, normal growth occurs.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about the Miltonia

Are there different Miltonia species?

The species differ mainly in size and shape. Breeding has resulted in hundreds of different varieties. Mostly large-flowered specimens are on the market.

How long does a violet orchid bloom?

The brightly colored flowers with a distinctive spot (sometimes called a mask or face) last up to 4 weeks depending on location. Since the buds bloom one after the other, a total flowering time of 2 to 3 months can be expected.

Why are the flowers of the pansy orchid sagging?

Orchids often react sensitively to a change of location. A drooping of the flowers can be the result of too low temperatures, waterlogging, drafts or too few nutrients.

What are Miltoniopsis?

Miltoniopsis were created by crossing different species of Miltonia. These hybrids are more heat tolerant and sometimes easier to care for than the original species, and they are clearer and bolder in color.

Orchids in the language of flowers
Here you can find out the meaning of the orchid in the language of flowers.

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