These are plug sized
 
🍊 Maxillaria sophronitis Terrarium Care Sheet (Vented Setup)
Overview:
Maxillaria sophronitis is a tiny epiphytic orchid native to the cool, cloud forests of Ecuador and Colombia. Highly prized for its brilliant orange-red blooms, this species is a true miniature, making it ideal for a vented terrarium with high humidity, good airflow, and moderate to cool temperatures.
📏 Size & Growth Habit
Type: Miniature epiphytic orchid
Mature Size: 3–6 cm tall
Growth Habit: Tight clusters of rounded pseudobulbs, each carrying a single short leaf
Flowers: Bright orange to scarlet, solitary, and large relative to plant size
Blooming Habit: Sporadic but can bloom several times a year with stable conditions
💡 Light Requirements
Light Level: Medium
Lux Range: 10,000–16,000 lux (930–1,500 foot-candles)
Best Placement: Bright, shaded spot in a terrarium or near an east-facing window
Lighting Tip: Grow lights work well—avoid direct midday sun which can scorch leaves
🌡 Temperature & Humidity
Daytime Temps: 16–22°C
Nighttime Temps: 10–16°C
Humidity: 80–95%
Airflow: Essential—this species hates stagnant air and needs regular air exchange in a vented terrarium
💧 Watering & Moisture
Watering Frequency: 4–6 times per week, more in warm or dry environments
Water Type: Rainwater, RO, or distilled preferred
Moisture Preference: Keep medium evenly moist—do not let roots dry completely
Misting: Morning misting is beneficial; avoid water sitting in the crown or leaf axils
🌱 Mounting & Medium
Mounting:
Best on cork or tree fern with a thin pad of sphagnum
Or in small mesh pots with fine bark and sphagnum mix
Terrarium Setup:
Keep above drainage layer (e.g. LECA or gravel)
Include live moss for humidity buffering
🌬 Airflow
Must-have for long-term health:
Vents, mesh lids, or gentle micro-fans
Leaves and roots should dry within a few hours of watering
Poor airflow = rot and fungal issues
🌸 Flowering & Growth
Flower Size: ~2.5–3.5 cm—large relative to plant
Color: Vibrant orange to red
Fragrance: Light, sometimes citrusy
Frequency: Can flower multiple times per year in stable, cool conditions
🌿 Fertilizer
Type: Balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g. 20-20-20 or MSU)
Strength: 1/8 to 1/4 of standard dose
Frequency: Every 2–3 weeks during active growth
Flush monthly with clean water to prevent salt accumulation
⚠️ Common Issues
Problem
Cause
Solution
Wrinkled pseudobulbs
Inconsistent moisture or over-dry medium
Increase watering frequency
Root rot
Stagnant air or soggy medium
Improve airflow, use airy mix
No flowers
Light too low or too warm
Increase brightness, lower temps slightly
✅ Terrarium Tips
Excellent in vented or open-style cool terrariums
Keep mounted or in very small pots to maintain good root aeration
Beautiful when grown near mosses or miniature orchids like Pleurothallis or Restrepia
Requires consistency more than complexity—avoid temperature spikes or dry spells