Dendrobium subquadratum

Also known as: Sikin's Dendrobium or Dendrobium kingianum var. subquadratum Sayeria subquadrata Dendrobium sikinii in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

Sikin's Dendrobium is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 20-30cm. Each new growth has numerous elliptic leaves that grow to 12-15cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 6-30cm. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 81mm to 287mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 85% to 89%, highest in December and lowest in August. Temperature ranges from 22C to 28C, highest in October (23C to 28C) and lowest in October (22C to 26C).

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

This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.