Den. Miniature Kaidao

Selling Size : Last Image | Net Pot Included | Secure Packing 

Den. Miniature Kaidao  is a popular hybrid orchid known for its compact size and prolific blooming. Like other Dendrobium orchids, it’s generally considered relatively easy to care for, making it a good choice for beginners.

Here’s a breakdown of its Den. Miniature Kaidao care requirements:

1. Light:

• Bright, indirect light is key. A south-facing window with a sheer curtain is often ideal. East-facing windows are also suitable, providing bright morning sun.
• Avoid direct midday sun, as this can scorch the leaves.
• If your plant isn’t blooming, it might not be getting enough light. The appearance of “keikis” (tiny offshoot plants) on young canes can also indicate insufficient light.

2. Watering:

• Water thoroughly when the potting medium starts to dry out. These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle. Stick your finger into the medium to gauge moisture levels. If it feels wet, wait.
• Use distilled water or rainwater to prevent mineral and salt buildup.
• During the active growing season (spring to early fall): Water frequently and heavily.
• During the winter months (rest period): Reduce watering, allowing the medium to dry out more between waterings, but don’t let it become completely bone dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

3. Humidity:

• Dendrobium ‘Yaya Compactum’ thrives in moderate to high humidity, ideally between 50% and 70%.
• Brown leaf tips can indicate that the air is too dry.
• You can increase humidity by placing the orchid on a humidity tray (a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot isn’t sitting directly in the water) or by using a humidifier.

4. Temperature:

• Daytime temperatures: Ideally between 70°F and 85°F (20°C to 30°C).
• Nighttime temperatures: A drop of about 10°F (6°C) is beneficial, so aim for 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C).
• Some Dendrobiums, particularly those with Dendrobium bigibbum (Phalaenopsis type) parentage like ‘Yaya Compactum’, don’t always require a significant winter cool-down to rebloom, but others might benefit from a few weeks at around 55°F (13°C).

5. Potting Medium and Repotting:

• Use a well-draining orchid potting mix, typically bark-based, which may include perlite and charcoal.
• Dendrobiums prefer to be slightly root-bound, so choose a small pot. Repot when the plant outgrows its pot or the potting mix breaks down, usually every two to three years. Spring is the best time for repotting.

6. Fertilizer:

• Fertilize regularly during active growth (spring and summer).
• Some sources suggest fertilizing twice a week with a very weak solution. Others recommend every two to three weeks in summer and once a month in winter.
• Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 NPK) for general growth.
• For blooming, consider a high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 0-52-34 MPK) every other week during the blooming season.
• Never fertilize a dry plant, as this can damage the roots. Always water first.

7. Blooming:

• ‘Dendrobium Yaya Compactum’ is known for blooming multiple times a year.
• The number of flowers increases as the plant matures.
• Ensuring adequate light, proper watering, and a slight temperature drop at night can encourage blooming.

Important Notes:

• Dendrobiums are a very diverse genus, and while ‘Yaya Compactum’ falls under the generally easier-to-care-for hybrids, always observe your specific plant for signs of stress or happiness.
• Don’t panic if your Dendrobium drops leaves; this can be a natural part of their cycle, especially for some types.
• Good air circulation is important to prevent fungal and bacterial issues, especially with higher humidity.