Dendrobium tetragonum culture

[calvin_orchidL]

Hey all,

I have a dendrobium tetragonum that's growing quite happily and is now maturing two tall and fat canes. I love the growth habit of this plant. Anyway, my question is, I read about a winter rest, but I typically like to respond to what the plant is doing rather than have prescribed rests at certain times during the year. I didn't initiate a rest because I saw the plant making these two new canes during the fall. Now that they are close to maturity, should I begin a period of drier culture? For those of you who grow this plant, do you start rest as canes finish maturing? I'm assuming the answer is yes, but I just want to double check.

Thanks!

[gnathaniel]

Hi Calvin, I've read that all but one (var. cacatua) of the tetragonum varieties are supposed to appreciate a mild dry rest in the winter, especially if days are short or temperatures cooler. Your intuition to follow the plant's own cycle seems pretty right on. I hope it blooms for you this year!

--Nat

[Tom-DE]

No "winter rest" needed for this species. Slightly drier and cooler is benefitial though.

[calvin_orchidL]

Thanks for the tips, guys

[Desmond]

Den. tetragonium comes from east coast Australia,Weather patterns can vary .In the north mainly summer rains -winter dry .In the Mid coast -Sydney north, Weather more unpredictable ,As this region is between Mediteranian type climate of far south coast (Melbourne) Winter wet summer dry and depending on weather patterns can have either or both at the same time .usually south of Brisbane there is likely to be more rain periods in winter