Dendrobium phalaenopsis: varieties, care, cultivation, replanting

Local flower shops typically stock two types of orchids: Dendrobium phalaenopsis and Dendrobium nobile. While they are generally similar, they have distinctive flower characteristics, noticeable upon close inspection, and their care regimens are also different. When discussing the Dendrobium phalaenopsis, which is named for its similarities to the Phalaenopsis plant, it's worth first reviewing the basic care guidelines.

Dendrobium Phalaenopsis care

Dendrobium Phalaenopsis is very easy to care for at home. It will grow quickly and easily in plastic pots or any other material you prefer. Cork blocks or carefully cleaned coconut husks are often used for this purpose. Dendrobium Phalaenopsis is not considered a parasitic plant; the tree trunks where it grows naturally provide support.

Lighting

Many experienced gardeners who are well-versed in Dendrobium Phalaenopsis orchids claim that this species thrives in medium light conditions. An east-facing windowsill is a great spot for this orchid. If you have a shaded south-facing windowsill, that can be a good alternative.

Temperature

Dendrobium Phalaenopsis and its care at home require maintaining the correct temperature. Daytime temperatures range from 23.8°C to 29.4°C, and nighttime temperatures range from 15.6°C to 18.3°C. This orchid grows best when the difference between day and night temperatures is 8.3°C to 11.1°C.

Watering

This orchid species should be watered in the morning. Dendrophalaenopsis care requires cool water. The plant's watering schedule may depend on the type of pot the orchid is planted in, the temperature, and the time of year. Generally, orchids need to be watered more frequently during warmer months and less frequently during cooler months. While the Dendrobium is actively growing, the roots and growing medium should be kept moist (water about once a week), but dryness won't harm the orchid when it's no longer active.

Humidity

When caring for a Dendrobium Phalaenopsis, it's important to monitor humidity. Dendrobium orchids aren't fussy in this regard; Phalaenopsis orchids require a humidity range of 50-60% to thrive. If you need to increase the ambient humidity, you can place the orchid near a humidifier. Remember to ensure adequate air circulation for your orchids. The room should be regularly ventilated.

Trimming

Gardeners often hesitate to prune their orchids after flowering. This is only permissible when the orchid begins to dry out. In this case, carefully trim the plant with disinfected, sharp scissors. The Dendrobium Phalaenopsis orchid will not benefit from this procedure if it still has green buds on its pseudobulb.

Choosing a pot

When growing, it's best to choose a clay pot, which will provide the plant with guaranteed stability. The pot size should be based on the size of the plant's roots. The roots should extend freely from the pot. It's important to leave at least 1 centimeter of space on the sides. Dendrophalaenopsis orchids can also thrive in plastic pots.

Transfer rules

Dendrophalaenopsis orchids require this procedure every two years or whenever the soil becomes soggy and moisture is no longer absorbed by the roots. Before repotting, remove all old medium and trim away damaged roots with a sterile cutting tool. This type of plant tends to grow better in smaller pots, where the roots are tightly packed together. However, once the roots begin to outgrow the pot, it's time to repot.

Period of stagnation

Orchids don't experience a pronounced period of stagnation. However, they do stop growing actively when daylight hours decrease. In autumn and winter, you may notice that the orchid's green top no longer develops, and the root system also stalls. This is normal. To support the orchid during this period of stagnation, reduce the frequency of watering.

Top dressing

The Phalaenopsis Dendrobium orchid requires regular fertilizing during its growth phase. Fertilizing every two to three weeks during the summer months and once a month in the winter should be sufficient.

Reproduction

Dendrobium Phalaenopsis propagation occurs vegetatively. Before propagation, the plant must undergo flowering. When the pseudobulb matures, a flower stalk will emerge. This stalk, in turn, will develop buds that will blossom into flowers. A single pseudobulb can trigger two flowering periods, but only under ideal care.

Flowering usually occurs in the spring and summer. Dendrobium Phalaenopsis and its cultivars vary, affecting the bloom time and characteristics. The cultivar also determines the flower's color, which can range from white to purple, pink, and lilac.

Dendrobium Phalaenopsis owners should know that when the offspring appear after flowering, it's time to propagate. The offspring are separated once they are fully formed. The joint after separation is dried by leaving the offspring outside for a day. For planting, Dendrobium Phalaenopsis requires high-quality soil and bark (grain size 5 to 10 mm).

There are two alternative propagation options: cuttings and division. Both are done after flowering. Well, you already know how Dendrobium Phalaenopsis blooms.

Outdoor maintenance

Dendrobium phalaenopsis is not recommended for outdoor cultivation. Temperate climates are unsuitable for normal plant development. Proper temperature control is one of the key factors for the healthy growth of this orchid.

Possible diseases and pests and methods of control

Orchid owners often complain about a lack of flowering. This is often due to poor lighting. This can also affect the size of the pseudobulbs. Incorrect lighting can often cause discoloration of the plant's leaves. Few people realize that a marbled leaf color can indicate a nutrient deficiency in the soil. In this case, the plant may require fertilizing.

You should also monitor the leaves to detect pests. Yellowing leaves are a warning sign. Adjust the temperature and monitor the plant. If there's no improvement, it's likely a pest infestation.

The main enemies of the Dendrobium Phalaenopsis are aphids, mealybugs, and, of course, plant-eating mites. While a proper care regimen is sufficient to combat diseases, pest control requires completely cleaning the plant's leaves and treating them with specialized products.

Reviews

Many Dendrobium phalaenopsis owners note that this orchid species is ideal for those wanting to grow this flower at home for the first time. A good variety to start with is the one called "Sonia," which is highly recommended by experienced gardeners.

Many reviews indicate that the Dendrobium Phalaenopsis is indeed less difficult to care for than many of its "relatives." The key is to maintain proper temperature, watering, and lighting conditions. Over time, it will become much easier to identify potential problems in the plant's development and resolve them.