Dendrobium - Warm-growing species
In this group of Dendrobium orchids you will find the 'antelope' and Phalaenopsis type of orchids. The antelope Dendrobium orchid flowers are erect and have spiraling petals whereas the Phalaenopsis Dendrobium orchid flowers are full and rounded in shape. And although the Phalaenopsis orchid and the Dendrobium orchid in this specific warmer-growing Dendrobium orchid look alike, they are by no means related.
The pseudobulds on these Dendrobium orchids are strong and rigid and carries up to six firm succulent leaves on the top of the bulb. The orchid flowers are borne right along the mature canes and does not really require any support like the nobile Dendrobium orchids. It is not uncommon to see a well established warmer-growing Dendrobium orchid that produces orchid flowers from the sides of the pseudobulbs as well as from its mature canes.
Since these Dendrobium orchids prefer hot, tropical conditions, it is important that you provide your cultivated orchid plant with the humidity that it would have experienced in its natural habitat. You also need to feed your Dendrobium orchid plants throughout the year so as to support the active growth and flowering of your orchids. It is best to feed them with high nitrogenous fertilizer during spring to aid the growth boost and then follow the feeding up with a general type of fertilizer during summer and a bloom booster in fall/autumn.
These Dendrobium orchids should be repotted just after the flowering period which can be throughout the year. The compost mixture that you use for potting your Dendrobium orchid should be free-draining so as to accommodate regular watering without the risk of over-watering which might result in rot. On the other hand, if you cultivate your orchids outside attached to a tree, rainfall will readily soak the orchid plants as well as drain through the medium on which the orchid plant is attached.
Light is yet again very important when cultivating Dendrobium orchids, even more so when you are cultivating your Dendrobium orchid in a green- or shade house. When repotting or potting your orchid plants be sure to make use of a very solid pot (It is recommended to make use of a clay pot because of its heavy base) as the Dendrobium orchid has a tendency to become top-heavy. In its favor, this warmer-growing Dendrobium orchid also lends itself to basket culture.
