Potting or Mounting a Dendrobium Phalaenopsis

Potting

• Potting Dendrobium phalaenopsis is a little different than potting other plants. A clay or plastic pot with good drainage, slightly larger – about 1 inch -- than the root ball, makes for a perfect planter. After setting the orchid in the pot, press sphagnum moss into the gaps between the roots and the pot. The moss secures the roots and maintains moisture. Dampen the sphagnum moss with water, offering more water when the moss begins to dry out. Repot the orchid every two years.

Mounting

• Dendrobium phalaenopsis plants thrive when mounted and displayed. Wood and cork are the most common mounting mediums, with 1 to 2 inches of sphagnum moss covering the wood or cork to disguise the root system. To mount, an indentation is made in the sphagnum moss and the plant is inserted. Fishing line is then wrapped around the mount and base of the plant, firmly holding it in place. Mounted Dendrobium phalaenopsis is spritzed with just enough water to dampen the moss. Subsequent watering is only performed once the moss begins to dry out.

Temperature, Humidity and Light

• Whether the Dendrobium phalaenopsis is potted or mounted, temperature and humidity are of great importance. During the day, the ideal temperature range is between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night, the orchid prefers temperatures around 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Evening temperatures between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit during the autumn season initiate flowering. Humidity levels between 50 and 80 percent are also preferable. Misting the plant with water periodically when the weather is dry or grouping Dendrobium phalaenopsis together increases humidity. Wherever you decide to mount or display the plant, make sure there is at least six to eight hours of bright, indirect light throughout the day.

Fertilizing

• Dendrobium phalaenopsis appreciate a dose of fertilizer during the growing season and when they begin to develop flower spikes. A 20-20-20 fertilizer applied according to manufacturer’s instructions helps to keep the orchid strong and healthy. Most Dendrobium phalaenopsis prefer fertilizing twice a month. A 10-30-10 fertilizer, applied according to label instructions, is favorable during flowering.