Overview
Microstylis katochilos Schltr. is a species of orchid that belongs to the family Orchidaceae. This plant is endemic to the Philippines and is often overlooked by horticulturists. Despite being a small, unassuming plant, it possesses a unique beauty that is worth exploring.Common Names
This orchid is commonly known as the "small-lip Microstylis." The name is derived from the Greek words "micro," meaning small, and "stylis," meaning column or pillar, which is the central reproductive structure in orchids.Appearance
Microstylis katochilos Schltr. is a small orchid that typically grows up to 10 centimeters in height. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are arranged in a rosette. The plant produces a single, slender inflorescence that bears small, greenish-white flowers with purple spots. The lip of the flower is small and relatively insignificant compared to the rest of the plant.Uses
This orchid is primarily grown as a collector's plant due to its unique appearance and rarity. It is not commonly cultivated for its ornamental value due to its small size and relatively inconspicuous flowers. However, it is an important component of the natural ecosystem in the Philippines and plays a role in pollination and seed dispersal.Light Requirements
The Microstylis katochilos Schltr. plant thrives in environments with moderate to bright indirect light. Direct sunlight may scorch the plant's leaves, so it should be placed in partial shade or diffuse light. Growers can place the plant near east-facing windows or those filtered by sheer curtains or blinds. Artificial light like fluorescent tubes or LED grow lights can also be used to supplement natural light.
Temperature Requirements
For healthy growth of the Microstylis katochilos Schltr. plant, temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees C (60 to 80 degrees F) are suitable. They are best grown in environments with stable temperatures, avoiding cold drafts or heat sources like vents and radiators. Care needs to be taken that it does not get subjected to extreme temperature fluctuations, which may stress the plant and affect their growth.
Soil Requirements
The Microstylis katochilos Schltr. plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not water-logged. A mixture of peat moss, bark, and perlite (1:1:1) can create the ideal soil mixture for this plant. Avoid using soils with high levels of organic matter, which may retain too much moisture, causing root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation methods for Microstylis katochilos Schltr.
Microstylis katochilos Schltr. is an epiphytic orchid that prefers to grow in a shady location. It can be grown in a pot or mounted on a tree or bark slab. For potted plants, use a well-draining orchid mix with bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss. For mounted plants, use sphagnum moss to hold the roots in place.
Ensure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overcrowding with other plants. The ideal temperature range for Microstylis katochilos Schltr. is between 18-22°C (64-72°F) during the day and 14-16°C (57-61°F) at night.
Watering needs for Microstylis katochilos Schltr.
Microstylis katochilos Schltr. needs consistently moist but not waterlogged soil or moss. Water the plant when the top layer of soil or moss feels dry to the touch. Water potted plants until water drains out of the bottom of the pot, and mist mounted plants regularly.
Water quality is key, and it is advisable to use rainwater, distilled, or reverse-osmosis filtered water since orchids are sensitive to chemicals and minerals that can be present in tap water.
Fertilization for Microstylis katochilos Schltr.
Feed Microstylis katochilos Schltr. with a balanced orchid fertilizer, such as 20-20-20, every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce the frequency to once a month during the rest period.
Flush the soil or moss with plain water once a month to remove fertilizer buildup and prevent root damage.
Pruning for Microstylis katochilos Schltr.
Pruning is not necessary for Microstylis katochilos Schltr., except for removing dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance. Cut the leaves at the base of the stem using sterilized pruning shears, and avoid damaging the remaining healthy foliage.
Do not remove the aerial roots that grow from the stem or mount them to another surface as these are vital to the plant's survival and help keep it stable.
Propagation of Microstylis Katochilos Schltr.
Propagation of the plant Microstylis katochilos Schltr. can be done through two methods - seeding and division.
Seeding
Seeds of Microstylis katochilos Schltr. can be sown in a well-draining, fertile seed-starting mix. The seeds require a temperature range of 20-24°C for optimal germination. The media should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and seeds should be sown shallowly, just below the surface of the soil. The seedlings will emerge in 3-6 weeks, and they can be transplanted into small pots or trays once they have developed sufficient leaves.
Division
An established plant of Microstylis katochilos Schltr. can be divided into several units to produce more plants. The best time to divide the plant is in spring or early summer when new growth appears. Gently dig up the plant and separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least one growing tip. The separated plants can be replanted in a suitable soil mix, ensuring they are placed at the same depth as the parent plant. Keep the newly divided plants moist and in a shaded area until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Microstylis katochilos Schltr.
Microstylis katochilos Schltr. is a small terrestrial orchid species that grow up to 15 cm tall. As with any plant species, diseases and pests can cause significant damage to the plant negatively impact its growth and survival. For best results in the management of diseases and pests of Microstylis katochilos Schltr., prevention is the most effective strategy. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect the plant.
Common Diseases
Some common diseases of Microstylis katochilos Schltr. include root rots, fungal leaf spots, viral infections, and bacterial infections. These diseases occur due to overwatering, poor drainage, and contaminated growing media. The following management practices may help to prevent these diseases:
- Ensure adequate air ventilation around the plant and avoid overcrowding it.
- Allow the soil to dry out before watering to avoid overwatering.
- Avoid using contaminated potting media and disinfect equipment.
- Apply a fungicide or bactericide to the affected plant according to the label instructions to curtail the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Several pests may affect the growth of Microstylis katochilos Schltr., including aphids, mealybugs, mites, and thrips. These pests cause damage to the leaves or flowers of the plant, leading to stunted growth and lower yields. To manage these pests:
- Maintain proper plant hygiene by removing any dead or infected plant tissue.
- Use mechanical methods like spraying water or using insect traps to physically remove pests from the plant.
- Use an appropriate pesticide spray to target the pests according to the label instructions.
- Use dedicated equipment or wash thoroughly after used in the infected area.
Effective management practices for diseases and pests of Microstylis katochilos Schltr. require proper identification and evaluation of the cause to select the correct measures effectively. Once the problem is under control, the plant will quickly recover and thrive while providing satisfaction from the cultivation of this species.
