Dendrobium emarginatum

General Information

Dendrobium emarginatum is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 90cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 7cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1-90cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 48mm to 335mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 78% to 82%, highest in October and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 18C to 30C, highest in July (21C to 30C) and lowest in January (18C to 28C).

Watering

These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.

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.

Use balanced fertiliser year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.

Potting

Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.