Dendrobium Kingianum
Dendrobium Kingianum (Dendrobium kingianum) is a fascinating orchid species of the epiphytic family. It has long, strong and tough tufts of leaves with an overlapping pattern on the stem that produces the individual starry flowers that are white with a yellow/green tip on the lip. Flowers start in late summer or fall when cooler temperatures prevail and last for weeks. The flowers also last longer in cool temperatures and without direct sunlight. This is an ideal houseplant due to its low maintenance needs and attractive flowers.
This orchid does not require much water, and too much water can lead to rot problems due to their low capacity to withstand water. It is best to water only when the media is completely dry. Watering should be done once a week in the summer and once every other week in the winter. Make sure the pots are well-drained and never leave Dendrobium kingianum sitting in water.
Dendrobium Kingianum prefers bright, indirect light. The plant will do best in an east, west or north facing window, or bright areas away from any direct light. Keeping the plant shy of the light and not having it completely exposed to the light will produce strong growth. Provide shade from the scorching midday sun.
Dendrobium kingianum likes average household temperatures (60°F/16°C to 75°F/24°C). In extreme temperatures, make sure you provide some protection. Temperatures below 55°F/13°C for extended periods of time can be fatal for the plants.
Dendrobium kingianum prefers humidity levels between 40% and 70%. To increase humidity levels, mist your plants on a weekly basis with water. Alternatively, put your pot on a tray filled with wet pebbles.
Dendrobium Kingianum requires an acid potting mix that is chunky and well-draining. Use a combination of orchid bark, coconut husks, sphagnum moss and perlite. The potting mix should be acidic with a pH of 5.5 to 6.0 and should provide good drainage, security, nutrition, and oxygenation.
Dendrobium Kingianum should be fertilized regularly during the active growing period. Use a water-soluble or slow-release fertilizer specifically developed for orchids. Follow the instructions on the package. Start fertilizing in late spring and stop in mid-fall.
Mealybugs and scale insects are the most common pests that can affect Dendrobium kingianum plants. To get rid of these pests, the first step is to isolate the plant and then to treat it with a suitable insecticide or natural remedy such as neem oil. You should also inspect the plant regularly for re-infestation.
It is best to repot your Dendrobium Kingianum every two to three years in order to keep the potting mix fresh and free of diseases. The best time to repot the plant is in the spring when it is actively growing. Use a potting mix that is composed of a combination of different types of bark, coconut husks, sphagnum moss and perlite.
Dendrobium Kingianum does not need pruning, but if you wish to do it, do it lightly and carefully. Pruning can be done to remove dead leaves, stem or flower stalks, and to shape the plant. Pruning should be done only after flowering and should be done using sterile cutting tools.
Mulching is not necessary for this species, but it can be useful in preventing weed growth and providing insulation for plants grown in pots or containers. You can use organic mulch like dried leaves or bark chips. Avoid using inorganic mulches like stones, gravel, and plastic materials.
Dendrobium Kingianum can be propagated from both seed and stem cuttings. The easiest way to propagate is from stem cuttings. Cut a 2-3 inch (5-7.5 cm) long stem from a healthy mother plant and sow the cuttings in a lightly moistened bark or perlite mix. Place the cuttings in indirect or dappled light and keep the mix barely moist until new roots and shoots have started to form on the cutting.
Support is recommended for larger or more mature Dendrobium Kingianum plants. You can use sticks, twigs or custom-made stakes to support your plants. Make sure the stakes are securely fastened to the pot and there are no sharp edges that can damage the plant’s delicate roots or stems.
Dendrobium Kingianum needs a rest period every six months during which the watering and fertilizer should be reduced. During the winter season, water should be reduced as well due to the cooler temperatures. Make sure no water gets into the pseudobulbs as this can cause rot.
No. Dendrobium Kingianum is not considered toxic to cats and dogs.
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