Twice this summer my epi ("Mark Twain") flowered. I was SO excited, until the weight of the flower pulled down on the flower stalk and choked the flower. So neither flower opened ! What can I do next year to prevent this ? Do I need to make a little sling ?
http://www.theamateursdigest.com/epis.htm "What do I do when flower buds form? When buds begin to show, plants are best kept at a minimum temperature of 50F (10C). It is important to note that too much heat at this time can hinder flowering and even cause the flowers buds to abort. A temperature of around 65F (15C) Epis should now be in a very bright situation, preferably with some filtered sun and given plenty of water. On a bright, warm day a light misting with warmish water will be appreciated. It takes a lot of energy for a plant to bloom so when the buds turn into blooms, the plant should be fertilized. " Young plants (read small) may also abort their blooms.
This plant did not abort its flower - the flower just got too heavy right as it was opening, and went from upward-facing at the end of its stalk to hanging straight down. This caused the flower stalk to twist a bit and I think it just sort of choked off nutrients etc. as the flower then wilted and died before it could open gloriously !
Oh - OK, thanks. I'll remember that next time. But how on earth do I keep it around 65 degrees in summer in VA ? Sigh..... perhaps it will bloom for me in winter in the house ?
You can try bringing it indoors into a shady area and misting it to keep the temperature around it cooler. (I'm assuming you had it outdoors?) It should bloom in the wintertime as well - however since Epis are tropical rainforest cacti you might have to fudge around with the amount of water and light you give it.
