Dendrobium ferdinandi

Also known as: Aporum ferdinandii in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Victoria - Australia

General Information

Dendrobium ferdinandi is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Australia.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 3-4cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 18mm to 193mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 71% to 78%, highest in January and lowest in June. Temperature ranges from 23C to 32C, highest in June (24C to 32C) and lowest in January (23C to 28C).

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 Summer, be sure to keep media moist.

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.