Gongora nigrita

Also known as: The Black in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Demerara-Mahaica Region - Guyana

General Information

The Black is a warm to hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Guyana.

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 112mm to 381mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in October. Humidity ranges from 83% to 88%, highest in June and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 21C to 33C, highest in September (22C to 33C) and lowest in January (21C to 29C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydration

Fertiliser

Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant.

Potting

Due to the growth nature of these plants they are best mounted onto cork, tree fern slabs, or even trees if the climate suits. Water regularly especially in hot weather.

Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.