These are plug sized
 
🌿 Pleurothallis grobyi Terrarium Care Sheet (Vented Setup)
Overview:
Pleurothallis grobyi is a miniature epiphytic orchid from the humid forests of Central and South America. It's one of the most forgiving and adaptable of the Pleurothallids, known for its compact growth and charming yellow-orange blooms. It thrives in high humidity, low light, and good air movement, making it perfect for a vented terrarium.
📏 Size & Growth Habit
Type: Miniature epiphytic orchid (Pleurothallidinae)
Mature Size: 3–6 cm tall
Growth Habit: Tight clumps of short stems, each with a single, small, oval leaf
Flowers: Tiny, yellow to orange, produced sequentially from the base of mature leaves
Growth Speed: Moderate; can form dense mats over time
💡 Light Requirements
Light Level: Low to moderate
Best Placement: East-facing windowsill, shaded terrarium spot, or under low to medium-intensity LED lights
Caution: Avoid direct sun; will burn easily
🌡 Temperature & Humidity
Daytime Temps: 18–24°C
Nighttime Temps: 12–16°C
Humidity: 80–95%
Airflow: Critical—vented or open terrarium setup recommended
💧 Watering & Moisture
Watering Frequency: 4–5 times per week, or daily in warm/dry periods
Water Type: Rain, distilled, or RO water only
Moisture Preference: Even moisture—roots must not dry out completely
Misting: Light morning misting is beneficial; avoid soaking the crown or causing water to pool
🌱 Mounting & Medium
Preferred:
Mounted on cork, driftwood, or tree fern with a thin layer of sphagnum
OR in fine mesh/net pots with sphagnum or a fine bark mix
Terrarium Substrate: Use elevated mounts or net pots above LECA or gravel to avoid contact with any standing water
🌬 Airflow
Essential for long-term health:
Passive vents are acceptable
Better results with small fans or an open section to allow exchange
Avoid sealing the terrarium completely for more than a few hours
🌸 Flowering & Growth
Bloom Habit: Frequently throughout the year with consistent conditions
Flowers: Small, yellow-orange, short-lived but produced successively
Rest Period: None—grows year-round in stable conditions
🌿 Fertilizer
Type: Dilute balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g. 20-20-20 or MSU)
Frequency: Every 2–3 weeks during active growth
Strength: 1/8–1/4 of recommended strength
Flush: Monthly with clean water to prevent mineral build-up
⚠️ Common Issues
Problem
Cause
Solution
Wilting or shriveling
Roots dried out or salt stress
Water more frequently, flush medium
Leaf spots
Water on leaves + poor airflow
Improve air movement, water earlier
No flowers
Too little light or unstable humidity
Adjust light and maintain constant moisture
✅ Terrarium Tips
Ideal for high-humidity miniature terrariums with good ventilation
Will slowly form mats or cascades on mounts over time
Excellent companion to mosses, liverworts, or other small Pleurothallids
Avoid drying out between waterings—this species prefers consistency