Dendrobium – King Dragon

Description

🌱 Care Tips for King Dragon Dendrobium

1. Light:

• Needs bright, indirect light (e.g., an east or west-facing window).

• Can tolerate some direct morning sun, but avoid harsh midday rays which can scorch leaves.

2. Temperature:

• Thrives in intermediate to warm temperatures:

  • Day: 70–85°F (21–29°C)

  • Night: 55–65°F (13–18°C)

• Ensure a slight drop in night temperature to encourage blooming.

3. Watering:

• Water thoroughly when the top inch of medium is dry.

• During active growth (spring/summer), water more frequently.

• In winter, reduce watering slightly — but do not let it dry out completely.

• Use distilled or rainwater if your tap water is high in minerals.

4. Humidity:

• Prefers 50–70% humidity.

• Use a humidity tray or humidifier if growing indoors in a dry climate.

5. Fertilizing:

• Feed every 2 weeks during active growth with a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20 or similar) at half strength.

• Reduce to once a month in winter.

6. Potting Medium:

• Use a well-draining orchid mix (bark-based, sometimes with perlite or sphagnum).

• Repot every 2–3 years, or when medium breaks down or roots outgrow the pot.

🧤 Handling Tips for King Dragon Dendrobium

• Support tall canes: As the plant matures, it may produce tall, top-heavy canes; use stakes if needed.

• Be gentle when repotting: The roots are sensitive; soak the pot beforehand to ease removal.

• Watch for pests: Keep an eye out for mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.

• Prune spent flower spikes after blooming, but don’t cut healthy canes — Dendrobiums rebloom from older canes.