Dendrobium pachythrix

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 1-3cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 0.5-1.2cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.4-1.2cm

Flowers

Numerous long lasting blossoms appear

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 127mm to 343mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Temperature ranges from 12C to 25C, highest in May (14C to 25C) and lowest in December (12C to 24C).

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. Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly 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.