Epigeneium chapaense
Also known as: The Chapa Epigeneium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
General Information
The Chapa Epigeneium is an orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.
Plant Description
Grows to 5cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped oblong shaped leaves. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.8-1.5cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth
Substrate(s)
- Treefern
- Spaghnum Moss
Climate
Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 41mm to 480mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 82% to 93%, highest in October and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 7C to 25C, highest in July (19C to 25C) and lowest in January (7C to 13C).
Watering
These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.
Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydrationFertiliser
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 during Spring and Summer. Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.Potting
Due to the growth nature of these plants they are best mounted onto cork, tree fern slabs, or even trees if the climate suits. Water regularly especially in hot weather.
This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.
