The Culture of Reed Stem Epidendrums

The reed stem Epidendrums are semi-terrestrial orchids which bear long-lasting brightly colored clusters of flowers.

This group of Epidendrums needs very bright light:  30 to 50% shade.  In California, they will tolerate full sun. 

Plant in a well drained peat based mix (Sunshine Peat’s GBX is good) with extra bark or perlite for added porosity.  Adjust pH to 5.5 to 6.2.  Keep the medium moist with frequent watering. Prior to planting remove the two bottom leaves.

Fertilize with a 17 5-17 at 150 to 200 ppm twice weekly; or incorporate a 1:1:1 ratio slow release fertilizer at a medium to high rate. 

These plants are very space efficient;  they can be grown with very close spacing in 4” or 6” pots. 

Provide day temperatures of 60 to 90 degrees F and avoid night temperatures below 55 for active growth.  Plants will tolerate temperatures down to 40 or even 35 without damage.  

Crop times:  liner to 4”:  6 to 7 months

                           4” to 6”:  add 3 to 4 months

                           4” to 8”:  add 5 to 6 months 

If grown bright, the plants should not need staking.  

Pests are few.  The occasional aphid or mealy bug can be controlled with Orthene.  Look for webbing and tiny caterpillars in the new growth.  Talstar will provide long term prevention and control. Dipel will usually kill them.   

A drench of Cleary’s 3336 or Ban-Rot will prevent the root-rot Rhizoctonia.  For the occasional leaf-spot fungus alternate Medallion with Terragard on a 14 to 21 day cycle. 

This text is a recommendation only; it is not an endorsement of any products or acceptance of any liability as a result of usage.

Revised 03/12/09