How do I care for my Epidendrum?

Epidendrum is a genus that grows between rocks and trees in the nature of Central and South America. It owes its name to its habitat. Namely, Epidendrum, a Greek word, literally means ‘on a tree’. The orchid is typified by its magnificent clusters of flowers, also referred to as racemes. The flowers are small, sometimes even smaller than a pinhead. Yet, their large number on a raceme more than compensates for their size. Due to its exuberant growth, this plant will turn your living room into a jungle.

Light

In a bright spot, but no direct sunlight.

temperature

Epidendrum prefers daytime temperatures around 18 degrees Celsius and a night-time temperature of approximately 15 degree Celsius.

water

This orchid should not be overwatered. It is sufficient to water it once every seven to nine days. Water epidendrum only once its soil is almost dry. 

Fertiliser orchid

  • Twice per month, feed epidendrum our special orchid fertiliser ‘Groei en bloei’. One level teaspoon per one litre of water. In February, May, and September, sprinkle one level teaspoon of ‘Grondverbeteraar’ (soil improver) once over the potting mix. The orchid does not require fertiliser from November up to and including January. Both products are sold in our shop.

Spraying flower buds

The humidity in a home can be low during the winter and summer months. Spray the smallest buds daily to prevent them from drying out and not flowering.

Soil

It is important to replant epidendrum once every three to four years in orchid potting mix. For oncidium, Pantropica has put together a well-aerated mix of bark, coco, and peat. This mix is available at our shop. Please do this if the orchid has finished flowering (preferably in springtime).

After flowering

Please do cut off the stem at the bottom if it is past flowering. Put the plant in a spot as bright as possible. The orchid will generate another stem from a new shoot. This will take approximately eight to twelve months.