Tolumnia are in the Oncidium Alliance, and are also called equitant oncidiums. They grow in the Caribbean where they receive bright light, some can be acclimated to nearly direct sun to slightly shaded depending on species. Many growers suggest letting the leaves turn slightly red/purple, this is a 'sweet spot' for these plants and usually indicates the appropriate level of light, especially for good blooming.

Depending on the plant, give them between 3000-6000 foot-candles of light (shade to part sun). Inside the home, place plants in an east, south, or west window.

For some species that require high amounts of light, it may be harder to achieve their light needs indoors without the help of LED or artificial lighting. Use an LED that emits >10000 lumens (900 foot-candles) about 1 to 2 feet from the plant to supplement window-sill growing.

Tolumnia are equatorial tropical plants and require warm temperatures, they'll do best in a range between 75-90F during day and down to 65F at night. Indoor room temperature works fine for these plants!

Plants can tolerate temperatures above 90F for short periods but should be kept watered well or allowed to cool at night time to keep them happy.

Generally, tolumnia have thin roots and will require quick wet-dry cycles - meaning they will want to be watered very thoroughly and then allowed to dry quickly, and also completely before being watered again.

Tolumnia will show you when they are not receiving enough water - their leaves will start to shrivel and lose their stiffness.

These plants are rather susceptible to root rot when they are not allowed to dry appropriately. Many growers grow them without any media, or mounted, or in a very chunky and airy media to allow for appropriate drying.

Mounted Tolumnia will need very frequent watering - water mounted plants at least once per day, or twice if the temperatures are above 85F.

Never use ice to water orchids!

Tolumnia do best in high humidity environments, especially when plants are mounted. Keep humidity between 60-80% or higher.

With increased humidity, increase airflow!

Fertilize regularly in the growing seasons to produce healthy, vigorous leaves and roots. A balanced fertilizer can be used (i.e. 10-10-10) diluted to 1/4 to 1/2 the strength on the label and used every week at watering.

Reduce and/or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter months.

Potting should be timed to align with new growths, which is typically in the spring.

When new growths start, the plants will also produce new roots, which is the best time to repot so that plants can bounce back quickly from having their root systems disturbed.

Tolumnia have thin roots and can languish when they are disturbed. If media sticks on the roots when repotting, leave it on the root to prevent damage.

Use a sterile cutting tool when cutting any plant parts, including dead roots.