KingCulture

Dendrobiums are a large genus of over 1000 species, which can vary considerably. Dendrobium kingianum is very common in Eastern Australia and is considered by some to be the easiest of the Australian orchids to grow. They are usually lithophytes but are sometimes found growing on trees.
This is a compact plant with slender pseudobulbs that range from 50 to 400mm tall. Each pseudobulb carries from 2 to 7 leaves at the top, with the leaves being up to 100mm long and usually medium to dark green. The unbranched inflorescence (called a raceme) can be 150mm long & carry as many as 15 blossoms but 5 to 7 is more common. The lightly fragrant flowers are usually seen in shades of pink, mauve and lavender and, less commonly, white & can be highly variable from plant to plant. The white lip is heavily marked in red or purple. Den. kingianums bloom almost exclusively in the spring.

LIGHT
In its natural habitat this plant is found growing on the rocks of a cliff face in full sun and also on rocks and trees in the semi shade of an open forest. In cultivation it likes bright light around 2500 - 4000 foot candles. At their optimum light levels, the leaves will have a slight reddish or purplish tinge to them.

TEMPERATURE
During the summer growing season, these plants enjoy a daytime temperature around 28oC and night temperature around 15oC. Winter minimum should be no lower than 2oC however plants have been known to survive a light frost. Ideal winter temperatures should be around 12 – 16 oC during the day and 4 – 8 oC night times.

WATER
While these plants need to be watered often particularly during the summer period, they do not like wet feet. They should be watered thoroughly and then allowed to drain freely allowing the roots to dry quickly. They need very little water during the winter rest period and should be allowed to completely dry between winter waterings, but ensure that they are not left dry for long periods. They grow best in 60 - 65% humidity throughout the year.

AIR MOVEMENT
These plants enjoy good air circulation all year round, as this helps to cool the plants in the warmer months & stops fungus & rots setting in during the cooler months.

FERTILISER
Fertilize with 1/2 strength mix during the growth period, decrease feedings in the autumn and withhold fertilizer altogether over the winter rest period.

POTTING
Dendrobium kingianums should be potted in the smallest, pot that will accommodate the roots and still allow for a further two years' growth. They can be mounted or hung in baskets if you can provide daily misting or watering and high humidity. They should be repotted after flowering using a fast draining fine bark mix.

Dendrobium kingianums & their hybrids will commonly produces many keikis, especially if they are over watered during the winter. In nature, these aerial offshoots will drop off as they mature and form new individual plants as their roots secure themselves into the surroundings. In cultivation, plants will produce mostly keikis instead of flowering, unless they have a relatively dry winter rest period. Mother plants tend to flower better if the keikis are removed and potted up as soon as roots develop to about 20mm long.