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From the tropical areas, as one travels to higher latitude localities, cooler temperate
areas will be reached, and New Zealand lies in such an area Epiphytes are generally found here to a limited extent
only as the cooler conditions are not conducive to their growth. There are, however, many terrestrial orchids able
to thrive under such conditions.
With respect to this habitat, both the ALTITUDE and the LATITUDE and the environment
influences its character. Gilbert, in his book “The Charm of Growing Orchids” has quantified this relationship,
and the chart shown above illustrates this. If you know the altitude a plant comes from, and the latitude of the
country concerned, you can quickly gain an approximation of the temperature conditions likely to be applicable
for that plant.
The typical climatic factors applicable to this habitat are a typical temperature range
of 0-25oC. although the normal range is 5-18oC. The diurnal range is 15oC. Humidity normally falls between 25-55%,
the lowest average of all habitats.
Plants cultivated from this habitat require cool conditions all year, with humidity between
25-55%. Relatively constant conditions are required, with good air movement. Winters are brighter, and summers
will be shaded.
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