How to Care for Dendrobium
As a precious variety of orchid plants, Dendrobium is deeply loved by gardening enthusiasts for its unique ornamental value and medicinal efficacy. To cultivate a lush and continuously blooming Dendrobium, one needs to master its special growth habits native to tropical rainforests. This article will systematically analyze the five core elements of home cultivation of Dendrobium from environmental control to daily management.
I. Light Environment Control
1.1 Characteristics of Native Light Environment
Dendrobium grows on tree trunks in rainforests, naturally forming a preference for semi-shade. In summer, a 70% shade rate is required; it is recommended to use sunshades or place it under tree shade to avoid scorching the leaves with direct noon sunlight.
1.2 Seasonal Light Management
In spring and autumn, it can receive scattered light at dawn and dusk, and in winter, the lighting duration should be increased to 5 hours/day. When yellow spots appear on the leaves, the shading intensity needs to be adjusted immediately.
II. Temperature and Humidity Management
2.1 Optimal Temperature Range Control
Keep the growth golden range of 15-30℃, with a day-night temperature difference controlled within 8℃. In winter, maintain above 12℃, and using a thermal film can effectively prevent cold damage.
2.2 Humidity Adjustment Techniques
Air humidity is recommended at 60-80%, with early morning and evening misting to simulate the microclimate of rainforests. Make sure to maintain environmental ventilation to avoid high humidity causing diseases.
III. Scientific Fertilization Program
3.1 Key Points of Basic Fertilizer Configuration
Mix well-rotted sheep manure (15% by volume) with pine bark substrate when potting, and supplement with slow-release fertilizer granules every half year to ensure a continuous nutrient supply.
3.2 Fertilization Strategy During the Growth Period
Apply a diluted solution of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (1:1500) monthly from April to September, and increase the application of calcium and magnesium fertilizers during the bud formation period.
IV. Intelligent Watering System
4.1 Substrate Dry-Wet Cycle
Adopt the principle of "watering when dry and keeping wet," with thorough watering every 7 days in spring and autumn, every 3 days in summer with leaf surface misting, and extending to every 15 days in winter.
4.2 Water Quality Treatment Recommendations
Use tap water that has been exposed to sunlight for 3 days or collected rainwater for irrigation, with an EC value controlled below 0.5ms/cm to avoid salt accumulation.
V. Advanced Maintenance Tips
Update the growing medium every spring and prune old aerial roots. Regularly check for pests and diseases such as red spider mites, which can be controlled with neem oil. By setting up climbing supports, a more natural growth form can be shaped.
Mastering these maintenance essentials, even beginners can keep Dendrobium green all year round. It is recommended to record the growth status every quarter, gradually adjusting the maintenance plan to create a tropical rainforest micro-landscape that is uniquely yours.