The orchid species included in the Mokara genus are actually intergeneric hybrids of the botanical genera Arachnis, Ascocentrum, and Vanda. The first taxon in this genus was represented by Mokara Wai Liang (Arachnis Isabel X Ascocenda Red Gem), named in honor of the grower C.Y. Mok from Singapore, who registered the first hybrid in 1969. The ancestry from the genera Arachnis, Ascocentrum, and Vanda (the last two genera forming the basis of the intergeneric hybrids known as Ascocenda) is revealed in the plant's anatomy, which is very similar to the artificial genus Aranda (Arachnis X Vanda). Alongside species of the genus Dendrobium, Mokara represents the most popular cut flowers in the Orchidaceae family.
Mokara species are probably the easiest orchids to grow if a few basic principles are followed. This species appreciates high humidity but prefers lower temperatures than Vanda species. One of the reasons they are especially appreciated by orchid collectors is the abundant and frequent blooming, and since a flowering season cannot be distinguished, the plants can form flower spikes throughout the year. Although they have few and superficial roots, sometimes none, Mokara will develop without problems, being a hybrid designed to thrive in harsh environmental conditions.
Mokara orchids prefer humid climates, with a relative humidity of 60 - 80%, an aspect that reveals their tropical origin, as well as in the case of light radiation parameter values, with east-facing windows recommended in brightly lit locations, with values of 25000 – 35000 lux, which will ensure successful reblooming. Mokara does not need very frequent watering, but atmospheric humidity should be higher to compensate for the poor root development typical of these hybrids.
Ideal temperatures for Mokara orchids will exceed 18 ℃ during the day and 13 ℃ at night.
Irrigation should be done moderately, in the morning, as Mokara orchids require small amounts of water; however, it is necessary to ensure that the water temperature is as close as possible to the ambient environment, as the plants can suffer from thermal shocks, which can cause flower abortion. Although belonging to the Vandeae tribe, Mokara species can also be grown in pots, with irrigation carried out similarly to that applied to Phalaenopsis species, that is by soaking the pots, followed by draining the excess water. In the warm season, Mokara orchids will be watered several times a week. Waterlogging in pots will NEVER be allowed, as the plants will develop root rot.
Fertilizations will be done periodically, with a fertilizer dedicated to orchids, with a 30 – 10 – 10 formula, at 50% of the manufacturer’s recommended dilution. During the active growth period, from the second half of May until the end of September – beginning of October, fertilizations will be abundant, every 4 – 6 days, but during the cold period, specifically in the winter months, fertilizer application will be reduced to a maximum of once a month.
Ventilation is a special aspect in growing Mokara species, representing, along with high humidity levels, one of the most important parameters ensuring the good maintenance of these plants. One of the easiest methods to ensure good ventilation for Mokara orchids is to place them near a room fan set to the lowest speed.
Although Mokara hybrids prefer their roots not to be disturbed, it is still recommended to change the growing medium and containers when opting for substrate/bark culture – especially if they start growing out of the pot. When repotting, it is necessary to ensure that the roots are moist and flexible; otherwise, they can be easily broken during handling. Preferred growing pots are unglazed ceramic ones, and the growing medium will be medium-sized pine bark, which can be combined with pieces of compacted coconut fiber.
Mokara is an orchid rarely affected by diseases, its most well-known pests being woolly aphids, which are easily controlled by applying systemic or contact insecticides available in specialized horticultural trade.
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