Dendrobium fairfaxii

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 300cm. Each new growth has numerous terete shaped leaves that grow to 10-61cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 5-15cm. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 53mm to 221mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 70% to 83%, highest in August and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 1C to 21C, highest in June (13C to 21C) and lowest in January (1C to 13C).

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.

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.

Fertiliser can be applied heavily year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.