Dendrobium nephrolepidis

Also known as: The Nephrolepis in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Nephrolepis is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. The name refers to the similarity to a Kidney Fern.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 100cm. Each new growth has numerous elliptic leaves that grow to 2.5-3.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 100cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 122mm to 429mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 78% to 82%, highest in July and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 23C to 31C, highest in January (24C to 31C) and lowest in January (23C to 30C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

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.