The species that have been primarily used in developing the modern hybrids are found in Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama.

They grow in locations that range from hot, humid lowlands, to relatively cool, humid cloudforests.

The operative word in all cases is humid, as moisture is available most of the year from rainfall, mist, or heavy deposits of dew.

LIGHT

1000-2000 fc. For those without light meters, this is not deep shade, but is enough shade so that no shadow results when a hand is passed between the plant and the light source.

It is about the same amount of light required by many Paphiopedilums, and a little less than needed by Cattleyas.

Because the light requirement is low, Miltoniopsis are easy to grow under artificial lights if humidity is moderately high.

Miltoniopsis produce the most blooms when they receive as much light as they can tolerate without causing damage to the foliage.

A slight pinkish tinge on the leaves indicates correct light levels, while red, yellow, or straw colored leaves indicate that light is too high.

The sepals and petals of some Miltoniopsis tend to recurve when light is high. Flower quality often improves if plants are moved to lower light after the buds develop.

TEMPERATURES

Season temperature variation is minor. Days should average 80-85°F , and nights should average 60-64°F.

Plants can tolerate temperatures higher than 90°F for brief periods, especially if humidity is high and air movement is strong.

Some growers successfully cultivate Miltoniopsis with Phalaenopsis at night temperatures near 68°F.

HUMIDITY

Daily humidity should average 70-80%, with late night maximums of 80-90% and afternoon minimums of 50-60%.

If high winter humidity creates problems with condensation, humidity may be reduced slightly. However, strong air movement prevents condensation, even when humidity is high.

WATERING

Miltonias like to be kept fairly moist with a slight drying between watering. During warm dry weather, they may need to be watered 2-3 times a week, during cool weather 1-2 times a week. A sure sign of under watering would be the formation of accordion-pleated leaves. If this happens, pick up slightly on the watering. Miltonias have very tender and fragile roots. For this reason, we recommend using rain water whenever possible.

FEEDING

Since Miltonias are vigorous growers, fertilizer can be applied almost every watering during the spring and summer months. This should be reduced to once a week during fall and winter.

We recommend a half strength solution of 20-10-20 fertilizer with each application.

POTTING

We find Miltonias do well in a rock wool mix. It is important that the pot drain well. Miltonias like to be somewhat pot-bound so allow room for only one year's growth. Repot each year in the spring.