Polystachya yakira W.Sanford
Polystachya yakira W.Sanford is an epiphytic orchid species that originates from the islands of São Tomé, Príncipe, and Bioko in Central Africa. It is also known as Yakira's Polystachya in honor of the collector of the type specimen.
General appearance
The plant has a scrambling growth habit and typically grows to about 15 cm in height. Its roots are wiry and grow out in all directions, attaching themselves to trees or rocks. The leaves are small, about 2 cm in length, and are a light green in color.
The flowers of Polystachya yakira are held on a narrow, upright spike that can reach up to 25 cm in length. Each flower is about 1 cm in size and varies in coloration from yellow to greenish-yellow. The sepals and petals are reflexed and the lip is three-lobed, with the middle lobe being the largest and the most distinctive feature of the flower.
Uses
Polystachya yakira is a popular ornamental plant, grown both for its stunning flowers and its unique growth habit. It is also an important species for conservation efforts due to its relatively limited distribution and vulnerability to habitat loss.
Growth Conditions of Polystachya yakira W.Sanford
Polystachya yakira W.Sanford typically grows in the lowland evergreen forests of Central and West Africa. They are found up to 1000 m above sea level and grow as epiphytes on the trunks and branches of trees. Here are some of the typical growth conditions:
Light Requirements
Polystachya yakira W.Sanford requires bright light but not direct sunlight. They can grow in moderate to low light conditions but growth may be stunted. In their native habitats, they grow underneath the canopy of trees and receive filtered light. It is recommended to provide them with 50-75% shading in cultivation.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Polystachya yakira W.Sanford is between 20-30°C during the day and 15-20°C at night. They prefer warm and humid conditions and can tolerate temperatures up to 35°C. However, they do not tolerate frost or temperatures below 10°C. The temperature should be consistent throughout the day and night.
Soil Requirements
Polystachya yakira W.Sanford grows as an epiphyte in nature and does not require soil to grow. They use their long, thin roots to anchor themselves onto the bark of trees and absorb nutrients and water from the surrounding environment. In cultivation, they can be grown in a well-draining orchid mix or mounted on a piece of bark or wood. The medium should not be allowed to dry out completely, and the plants should be watered when the medium is almost dry.
Cultivation Methods
Polystachya yakira W.Sanford is a warm-growing epiphytic orchid native to West Africa. It prefers growing in shaded areas such as trees or artificial supports, such as slabs, baskets, or pots.
Plant this species in a well-drained mix of sphagnum moss, coconut husks, or a commercial orchid mix. The medium must neither be excessively dry nor waterlogged. The ideal temperature range for this orchid is between 20-30°C.
Watering Needs
This orchid requires regular watering and prefers to be moist without being waterlogged. Water once or twice a week depending on the growing environment. During the warm season, it may need frequent watering, while during the winter, reduce the watering frequency. Use rainwater or tap water that has been left to stand for a day, as it prevents a build-up of minerals in the soil. Avoid using cold water directly on the roots or foliage.
Fertilization
Polystachya yakira W.Sanford requires fertilizer during the growing period, from spring to the end of summer. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer, diluted to half strength and offered every two weeks. During the winter dormancy period, stop fertilizing.
Pruning
Pruning is critical for the health of the orchid. Inspect the orchid regularly, and remove any infected or rotting roots, leaves, or stems. Use sterilized tools to prevent the spread of diseases. Cut back any unwanted growths or spent flower spikes. It is advisable to repot this orchid every year or two with fresh growing medium.
Propagation of Polystachya Yakira W.Sanford
Polystachya yakira W.Sanford is a species of orchid that is native to Cameroon and Nigeria. The plant is quite rare and is primarily grown for its beautiful flowers and unique foliage. Here are some propagation methods that you can use to grow new Polystachya yakira W.Sanford plants:
Propagation by Division
One of the most common ways to propagate Polystachya yakira W.Sanford is by division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in new pots or locations. Start by carefully removing the plant from its pot and gently loosening the roots. You can then divide the plant into smaller sections using a sharp knife or pair of scissors. Be sure to sterilize your cutting tool first to prevent the spread of disease. Once you have your new sections, you can plant them in fresh potting soil and water them well.
Propagation by Seed
Another way to propagate Polystachya yakira W.Sanford is by seed. This method takes longer than division, but it can be a fun and rewarding way to grow new plants from scratch. Start by collecting seeds from a mature Polystachya yakira W.Sanford plant. You can then plant the seeds in a tray or pot filled with moist potting soil. Cover the tray or pot with plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect and keep the soil moist. With proper care and some patience, your Polystachya yakira W.Sanford seeds should begin to germinate in a few weeks or months.
Propagation by Keiki
A third way to propagate Polystachya yakira W.Sanford is by keiki. A keiki is a baby plant that forms on the stem or base of the parent plant. To propagate using this method, carefully remove the keiki from the parent plant and plant it in its own pot with fresh potting soil. Be sure to keep the soil moist and provide the baby plant with plenty of indirect sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management for Polystachya Yakira W.Sanford
Polystachya Yakira W.Sanford is a relatively sturdy orchid species, but it is not unsusceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common problems that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Soft Rot: This disease is caused by bacteria that infects the plant's tissues, resulting in the leaves turning yellow and the stems becoming soft or mushy. To manage this problem, it is best to remove the infected parts of the plant and sterilize the pruning tools to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Botrytis Blight: This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in humid conditions. It causes the flowers and buds to turn brown and turn to mush. To prevent the spread of the disease, it is best to remove the infected parts of the plant, increase air circulation, and maintain proper humidity levels.
Virus: Viruses are transmitted through infected tools or insects, and they can cause the leaves to have distorted shapes and streaks. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral diseases. To prevent the spread of the disease, it is best to remove the infected plant and destroy it.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that leave a white cotton-like substance on the plant. They suck the sap from new growth, causing deformation of the affected leaves. To manage this problem, one can use a cotton swab soaked with rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant. It is also best to isolate and treat the plant with insecticide.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that usually thrive in a dry environment. They leave webbing on the plant's leaves and cause yellowing of the leaves. One can manage this problem by increasing the humidity around the plant. One can also use insecticidal soaps or sprays to control the population of spider mites.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are insects that attach themselves to the plant and suck the sap from it. They leave a brownish scale-like substance on the plant and can cause yellowing and deformation of the leaves. To manage this problem, one can apply a horticultural oil spray or use rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant.
In conclusion, managing pests and diseases in your Polystachya Yakira W.Sanford is essential for ensuring its healthy growth. Regular observation, cleaning, and appropriate use of pesticides or insecticides can prevent the spread of disease and pests on your plant.
