Dendrobium somai

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 60cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 0.8cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 60cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 74mm to 224mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 82% to 86%, highest in February and lowest in July. Temperature ranges from 12C to 33C, highest in July (24C to 33C) and lowest in January (12C to 19C).

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.

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.