Dendrobium proteranthum

Also known as: The Before the Leaves Dendrobium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Thailand

General Information

The Before the Leaves Dendrobium is a sympodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Thailand.

Plant Description

Sympodial. . Pseudobulbs grow to 1.3cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 3mm to 224mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 59% to 82%, highest in September and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 11C to 36C, highest in April (23C to 36C) and lowest in January (11C to 29C).

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.

Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.