Dendrobium kietaense
Also known as: The Kieta Dendrobium or Dendrobium malaitense Grastidium malaitense in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
General Information
The Kieta Dendrobium is a sympodial hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after a Bay In the Solomon Islands.
Plant Description
Sympodial. Grows to 150cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 9-18cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 150cm. The plant forms pendant or arching growths
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
Climate
Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 203mm to 297mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 76% to 82%, highest in December and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 23C to 32C, highest in June (24C to 32C) and lowest in January (23C to 29C).
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.
Use balanced fertiliser year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.Potting
Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.