Origin of Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr.
Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. is a species of Epiphytic Orchid that is native to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Hairy Bulbophyllum due to its hairy appearance, and also as the Ciliate Bulbophyllum.
Uses
Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers.
General Appearance
The Hairy Bulbophyllum has small pseudobulbs that are covered in fine hairs. The plant typically produces a single leaf that is elongated and tapered towards the end. The flowers grow on a long inflorescence, which can hold anywhere between eight to twelve flowers. The flowers themselves are relatively small and have a distinct smell that can be described as musky. The petals are greenish-yellow in color with purple stripes, and the lip is a deep maroon color. The Hairy Bulbophyllum is a low-maintenance plant that prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Light Requirements
Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. prefers bright, filtered light to grow and thrive. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight, which may damage its leaves and roots.
Temperature Range
The ideal temperature range for Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. is between 18 to 28°C. It can tolerate slightly higher temperatures if humidity is maintained at higher levels. The plant should also be protected from sudden temperature changes and cold drafts.
Humidity Needs
Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. prefers high humidity levels ranging from 60% to 80%. To meet the plant's humidity requirements, it can be grown in a greenhouse or terrarium. Misting the foliage once or twice a day may also help to increase humidity levels.
Soil and Watering Requirements
Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. should be planted in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. The plant needs to be watered regularly, and soil should not dry out completely. The ideal watering schedule will vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and pot size. It's also essential to ensure that the plant's roots are not sitting in standing water, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation
Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. is an orchid species that thrives under the right conditions. It can be cultivated in a pot or mounted on a piece of bark or tree fern. The plant requires good air circulation and a humid environment. In ideal conditions, Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. will produce many flowers.
Watering Needs
The plant prefers to grow in a moist growing medium. Therefore it should be kept moderately moist and be allowed to dry slightly between watering. Ensure that the potting mix is well-aerated and drains nicely, as standing water can cause root decay. In addition, avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers when watering.
Fertilization
Fertilization is critical in the growth and blooming of the plant. Give it regular feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer mixed at half strength. During the growing season, apply fertilizer every two weeks, and reduce the frequency to once a month during the dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr., but it will benefit the plant. After the flowers have died or wilted, trim the stem to remove the dead flowers. This encourages new blooms to grow and makes the plant look more attractive.
Propagation of Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr.
Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. can be propagated through different methods. The following are the commonly used propagation methods for this plant:
Division of Rhizomes
This is the most common and easiest way of propagating Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. The plant usually forms clumps of rhizomes that can be divided during repotting. It is important to make sure that each division has a healthy pseudobulb and a good root system. The new divisions can then be potted in a well-draining medium and placed in a bright, humid spot.
Backbulb Propagation
Another propagation method for Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. is the use of backbulbs. These are the old, shrunken pseudobulbs that have fallen off the plant and are lying dormant in the potting mix. These bulbs can be collected and placed in a pot, covered with a layer of potting mix, and kept in a bright, humid spot. It may take some time for new growth and roots to emerge from the backbulbs.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be taken for propagation, although this method is not commonly used for Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. The stem should be cut just below a node, and the lower leaves should be removed. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining medium and kept in a bright, humid spot. It is important to make sure that the cutting remains moist until new roots and growth have developed.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another method for propagating Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. However, it requires more effort and expertise compared to the other methods. The seeds need to be collected from a mature plant and sterilized to prevent infection. The seeds are then sown in a suitable medium and kept in a warm, humid location. It may take several years for the plant to reach maturity and produce flowers.
Regardless of the propagation method you choose, it's important to provide your new plants with the right growing conditions including ample light, humidity, and a well-draining potting mix. With proper care, your new Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. plants can grow and thrive for years to come.
Disease management
Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. is prone to various diseases that can weaken or kill the plant. The most common diseases affecting this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown spots with yellow halos on the leaves and pseudobulbs. To manage this disease, remove the affected parts and destroy them. Apply a fungicide to prevent further infection.
- Black rot: This bacterial disease causes the leaves to turn yellow and wilt. The pseudobulbs become watery and dark. To manage this disease, remove the affected parts and destroy them. Apply a bactericide to prevent further infection.
- Root rot: This fungal disease causes the roots to turn black and mushy, leading to plant death. To manage this disease, improve the soil drainage and avoid over-watering. Remove the affected parts and apply a fungicide to prevent further infection.
Pest management
Bulbophyllum ciliatum Schltr. is also susceptible to pests that can damage the plant and reduce its growth. The most common pests affecting this plant include:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To manage this pest, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and flowers, causing distortion and discoloration. To manage this pest, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems and suck the plant sap, causing yellowing and wilting. To manage this pest, remove the scale insects manually, or apply horticultural oil to suffocate them.
Regularly inspecting and cleaning the plant can prevent the onset of pests and diseases. Ensure proper hygiene and remove any dead or decaying plant material, as these can harbor pests and diseases.
