Dendrobium trichosepalum

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 5-10cm long. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 102mm to 244mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in January. Temperature ranges from 8C to 23C, highest in July (10C to 23C) and lowest in February (8C to 20C).

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.

Potting

Repotting is best done in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.