Method of Cultivating Dendrobium Officinale
As an orchid plant with both ornamental and medicinal value, Dendrobium officinale has become a new favorite for home greenery in recent years. However, many plant enthusiasts often encounter problems such as yellowing leaves and short blooming periods during cultivation. This article systematically analyzes the five key points of care from lighting to temperature differences through illustrated explanations.
I. Lighting Control Techniques
1.1 Seasonal Shading Strategy
Dendrobium officinale is a typical semi-shaded plant. It is recommended to set a 60% shading net in spring and summer to avoid direct sunlight from 10:00-15:00. In winter,遮光 facilities can be removed to allow full sun exposure.
1.2 Symptoms of Abnormal Lighting
Excessive sunlight can cause brown sunburn spots on the leaves, while insufficient lighting results in slender stems and increased leaf spacing. It is recommended to rotate the pot by 45 degrees monthly to ensure even exposure.
II. Scientific Water Management
2.1 Graded Watering Scheme
In summer, adopt the "morning and dusk double watering method": water the substrate thoroughly in the morning and mist in the evening to increase humidity. In winter, follow the "wet after dry" principle, and water only when the substrate 3 cm deep is dry, tested with a bamboo skewer.
2.2 Maintaining Air Humidity
Use the pot-in-pot method: place陶粒 and water in the outer container, and place the inner pot elevated. By misting twice a day, the environmental humidity can be stabilized in the ideal range of 60%-75%.
III. Nutrient Supply System
3.1 Fertilizing During the Growing Period
Use a special orchid fertilizer (N-P-K=20-20-20) from April to October, diluted 1:1500 with water and applied weekly. During the budding period, switch to a phosphorus-potassium fertilizer, combined with foliar application of potassium dihydrogen phosphate.
3.2 Maintenance During Dormancy Period
Stop fertilizing in winter but supplement trace elements. Wipe the leaves with calcium-magnesium-containing water monthly, which not only removes dust but also promotes stomatal absorption.
IV. Temperature Difference Control Secrets
4.1 Day-Night Temperature Difference Setting
The ideal day-night temperature difference should be maintained at 8-10℃, which can be achieved by opening windows at night. During winter heating, it is recommended to place a thermal pad under the pot to avoid direct heating from floor heating.
4.2 Seasonal Temperature Management
Maintain 18-25℃ in spring and autumn, cool with a water curtain in summer, and keep the temperature above 5℃ in winter. Apply a low-temperature stimulation of 15-20℃ 45 days before flowering to promote bud differentiation.
By mastering these five core elements, and combining regular pruning of old stems and division propagation, Dendrobium officinale can not only bloom every year but can also be cultivated into unique ornamental potted landscapes. It is recommended for beginners to start with 3-year-old seedlings and gradually accumulate experience.