Gift By God #72

Description

🛠️ Handling Rare Dendrobiums

• Delicate Blooms: Handle flowers minimally. Support flower spikes with soft stakes.

• Pseudobulbs: Be gentle when repotting to avoid breaking pseudobulbs.

• Roots: Dendrobiums have aerial roots—never force them into pots.

• Sterilize Tools: Always use clean, sterile scissors when pruning.

🌱 Caring for Rare Dendrobiums

1. Light:

• Bright, indirect light. (East or South-facing windows are best)

• Some rare species tolerate slightly more shade.

2. Temperature:

• Warm growers: 20-30°C (68-86°F)

• Cool growers (e.g., D. cuthbertsonii): 10-20°C (50-68°F)

• Avoid sudden temperature drops.

3. Humidity:

• High humidity (50-80%)

• Use humidity trays or misting for rare tropical species.

4. Watering:

• Growing Season (Spring-Summer): Water thoroughly, let dry slightly between watering.

• Dormant Period (Winter for some species): Reduce watering but don’t let it dry completely.

• Use rainwater or distilled water if possible.

5. Fertilization:

• Use orchid fertilizer (20-20-20 or balanced) every 2 weeks during growth.

• Reduce feeding in winter.

6. Air Circulation:

• Good airflow prevents rot and fungal infections.

• Use a small fan near plants.

7. Repotting:

• Repot every 2-3 years after blooming.

• Use orchid bark mix, sphagnum moss, or a combination depending on species needs.

• Rare species might prefer finer-grade moss for moisture.

8. Pests/Diseases:

• Watch for aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, scale.

• Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Keep an eye on root rot and fungal infections—ensure proper drainage.

🌼 Special Care Tip for Rare Dendrobiums:

• Mimic natural habitat: Research specific rare species and mimic their native environment (altitude, light, seasonality).

• Some rare types need a dry winter rest period to bloom.

✅ Quick Care Summary Table: