Dendrobium humifusum

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 4cm. Each new growth has a single lance shaped leaf that grows to 2.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.5-1.3cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

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 19C to 29C, highest in June (21C to 29C) and lowest in January (19C to 24C).

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.

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.

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