Dendrobium uncipes

General Information

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

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 5cm. Each new growth has numerous thick leaves that grow to 3cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1.7cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Bark

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 61mm to 216mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in November. Humidity ranges from 79% to 81%, highest in January and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 17C to 27C, highest in April (18C to 27C) and lowest in January (17C 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.

During Spring, be sure to keep media moist. 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.

Use balanced fertiliser year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.