🌸 Sarcochilus Newbold Thredbo Care Sheet (Closed Terrarium Setup)
A striking compact orchid hybrid, known for its crisp colour contrasts and reliable blooming.
🔍 Quick Info
Type: Epiphytic Sarcochilus hybrid
Size: Compact, typically 10–15 cm tall
Flowers: Bold, often white with red/purple blotches; showy and long-lasting
Bloom Time: Spring to early summer (may rebloom in ideal conditions)
Growth Habit: Monopodial, slow-spreading
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Day Temp: 20–28°C
Night Temp: 16–20°C
Humidity: 70–90%
✅ Closed terrariums provide ideal humidity
⚠️ Add some air exchange (USB fan or brief lid opening) to prevent fungal issues
💡 Light Requirements
Light Level: Bright, filtered or diffused
Natural Light: East-facing or north-facing window
Artificial Light: LED grow lights (10–12 hours daily)
❌ Avoid harsh midday sun—leaves can easily burn
💧 Watering
Water Frequency: 2–3× per week depending on evaporation rate
Water Quality: Use RO, distilled, or rainwater
Moisture Level: Keep lightly moist but never soggy
✅ Mist roots or water gently around base
❌ Avoid letting water sit in crown or leaf joints
🌱 Potting & Mounting
Substrate:
Fine bark + sphagnum mix in a small, airy pot
Or mount on cork with moss (only if terrarium has good airflow)
Preferred Container: Net pots or shallow orchid baskets for root aeration
🪴 Avoid deep, stagnant containers
🌬️ Air Movement
Air circulation is critical to prevent fungal and bacterial issues
USB fan or regularly vent the terrarium (1–2× per week minimum)
Ensures strong root health and bloom success
🌿 Feeding
Fertilizer: Balanced orchid fertilizer at 1/4 strength
Feeding Frequency: Every 2–3 weeks in spring/summer
Flush: Monthly with clean water to prevent salt buildup
⚠️ Additional Care Tips
Prune old flower spikes only after they fully dry
Monitor for pests: Mealybugs and fungal spots are rare but possible
Check crown for trapped moisture—dry gently with tissue if needed
Avoid rapid temp changes—this hybrid prefers stability
✅ Perfect For
Warm, humid terrariums with bright, indirect light
Orchid hobbyists who want colour contrast and compact growth
Intermediate growers with moderate terrarium orchid experience