Dendrobium farmeri

Dendrobium farmeri

This Dendrobium belongs to the section 'Densiflorum', renowned for its clusters of pendulous flowers.  Considered to be one of most beautiful dendrobium species. 

It is a Southeast Asian species native to the eastern Himalayas, Assam, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Malaysia. In its native habitat, dendrobium farmeri grows on large trees over hanging the rivers where it receives some shade and moisture.  Something this species really appreciates.  Here in Florida we grow it in 50% shade. Will not bloom if it doesn't get enough light. 

Dendrobium farmeri thrive in warm to hot conditions but require a dry winter rest to bloom in the spring. If they receive too much water in late winter, they may be reluctant to flower in the spring. To encourage blossoms from May to June, try to keep them on the dry side with decreased watering between February and April.

Dendrobium farmeri grow well in bark, coco husk, and sphagnum moss. It is important to provide heavy watering throughout the summer during the growing season.

Blooming Size Plant: Yes  *Blooming size plants- This does not mean you will receive a plant in bud or bloom.

Dendrobiums are among the most commonly encountered orchids in the retail trade. Like most other cultivated orchids, dendrobiums are epiphytes, or air plants, with well-developed water-storage organs called pseudobulbs, often referred to as "canes" due to their upright, leafy appearance. Dendrobium farmeri should be potted in porous, free-draining media or mounted.

Light

Sufficient light is crucial for healthy growth and flower production. Provide bright light, up to 50 percent sun. In the home, place them in an east, west, or lightly shaded south window. In a greenhouse, provide about 30 to 50 percent of full sun. Under lights, use four 40-watt fluorescent tubes and two 40-watt incandescent bulbs directly over the plants. Dendrobiums should be naturally erect, with minimal staking, and display a medium olive-green color.

Temperature

Mature dendrobium farmeri orchids need a 15 to 20°F difference between night and day. Provide nights of 60 to 65°F and days of 80 to 90°F. Temperatures up to 95 to 100°F are beneficial if humidity and air circulation are increased. Low temperatures (below 50°F) may cause leaf drop.

Water

Keep dendrobium farmeri evenly moist while in active growth. Allow them to dry between waterings once growth is mature, indicated by the presence of a terminal leaf.

Humidity

Dendrobiums need 50 to 60 percent humidity. In the home, place them on trays over moistened pebbles. In a greenhouse, use a humidifier if conditions are too dry.

Fertilizer

Fertilize regularly during the active growing period. The type of fertilizer you use will depend on the potting mix. A good general rule is to apply a balanced (10-10-10, 12-12-12, or similar ratio) fertilizer "weakly, weekly," meaning fertilize every week at one-quarter to one-half of the recommended dilution.

Potting

Repot Dendrobium farmeri every two to three years, before the potting mix breaks down. Pot them firmly in a medium that provides aeration and ample drainage, allowing enough room for two years' growth. Dendrobiums grow best in pots that are small for the size of the plant or mounted.