Dendrobium alderwereltianum

Also known as: Alderwerelt's Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

Alderwerelt's Dendrobium is a sympodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 18cm. Each new growth has numerous oblong shaped leaves that grow to 5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 18cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 10mm to 719mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 64% to 85%, highest in August and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 14C to 24C, highest in February (18C to 24C) and lowest in February (14C to 23C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

During Spring, be sure to keep media moist. Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydration

Fertiliser

Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.