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Dendrobium Care for Beginner
The
Spray Orchid
Dendrobiums are among the most
commonly encountered orchids in
the retail trade. Like most
other cultivated orchids,
dendrobiums are epiphytes, or
air plants. They have
well-developed water-storage
organs (pseudobulbs), often
called "canes" for their
upright, leafy appearance. They
should be potted in porous,
free-draining media.
There are many different types
of dendrobiums available to the
specialist grower. However,
hybrids involving Den.
phalaenopsis are what you
will most often encounter.
Light
Sufficient light is important
for healthy growth and flower
production.
Provide Bright
light, to 50 percent sun. In
the home, an east, west or
lightly shaded south window. In
a greenhouse, about 30 to 50
percent of full sun. Under
lights, four 40 watt
incandescent bulbs directly over
plants. Plants should be
naturally erect, without need of
(much) stalking, and of a medium
olive-green color.
Temperature
Mature plants need a 15 to 20 F
difference between night and
day.
Provide Nights
of 60 to 65 F; days of 80 to 90
F. Temperatures up to 95 to 100
F are beneficial if humidity and
air circulation are increased.
Low temperatures (below 50 F)
may cause leaf drop.
Water
Keep
evenly moist while in active
growth. Allow to dry between
waterings after growth is mature
(indicated by terminal leaf).
Humidity
Dendrobiums need 50 to 60
percent. In the home, place on
trays over moistened pebbles.
In greenhouse, use a humidifier
if conditions are too dry.
Fertilizer
Should be provided on a regular
basis during the active growing
period. The exact fertilizer
you use will depend on the mix
in which your plant is growing.
A good general rule is to apply
a balanced (10-10-10, 12-12-12,
or similar ratio) fertilizer
"weakly, weekly" during the
period of active growth. That
is, fertilize every week at one
quarter to one half of the
recommended dilution.
Potting
Should be done every two to
three years before mix loses
consistency (breaks down). Pot
firmly in medium, giving
aeration and ample drainage,
allowing enough room for two
years' growth. Dendrobiums grow
best in pots small for the size
of the plant.
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