Origin and Common Names
Dendrobium galeatum Sw. is an epiphytic orchid originated from Southeast Asia. It is commonly known as the Tiger Orchid or the Galeatum Dendrobium.
General Appearance
Dendrobium galeatum Sw. has pseudobulbs that range from 30-100 cm long and 6-12 mm wide. Its leaves are oblong or narrowly elliptic and are about 5-12 cm long and 1-2.5 cm wide. From the base of the pseudobulbs, the plant grows one or two long, thin inflorescence that can reach up to 50 cm long. The orchid produces many flowers that are arranged in an arching manner, and each flower has a distinct resemblance to a tiger's stripes, hence its name.
Uses
Many Dendrobium galeatum Sw. species are used in traditional Chinese medicine for their therapeutic properties. It is known to contain alkaloids, polysaccharides, and flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory, immune-enhancing, and anti-cancer properties. The pseudobulbs of the orchid are also used as a tonic and to relieve coughs and respiratory problems. Dendrobium galeatum Sw. is also popular in the horticultural industry as an ornamental plant because of its unique and beautiful appearance.
Light Requirements
Dendrobium galeatum Sw. is a tropical orchid plant that requires adequate light to grow well. The plant prefers bright but indirect sunlight. It is best to provide about 50% or less of the direct sunlight. Placing the plant in direct sunlight can lead to leaf burn and damage. Providing artificial lights such as fluorescent lights can also suffice to promote growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant also requires a specific temperature range to grow well. Generally, Dendrobium galeatum Sw. prefers a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature range is between 20 to 35 degrees Celsius. However, the plant can withstand higher temperatures for short periods. The plant may experience stunted growth or even die if exposed to temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius.");
Soil Requirements
Dendrobium galeatum prefers well-draining and porous soil. In the wild, it grows as an epiphyte on trees. The ideal soil should also retain some moisture to support optimal growth. It is recommended to use a mix that contains coconut husk chips, charcoal, perlite, and sphagnum moss. However, it is advisable to repot the plant every 1-2 years to replenish the soil nutrients.
Cultivation Method
The Dendrobium galeatum Sw. plant grows best in warm to hot temperatures with high humidity. It can be cultivated outdoors in tropical regions or inside a greenhouse. For indoor cultivation, it requires bright, indirect sunlight, while outdoor plants need partial shade. The plant prefers a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture and good aeration.
Watering Needs
The Dendrobium galeatum Sw. plant has moderate water requirements. Water the plant when the topsoil feels dry to touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can ultimately kill the plant. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency, as the plant does not require as much moisture.
Fertilization
The Dendrobium galeatum Sw. plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen should be applied every two weeks. Reduce fertilizer application during the winter dormancy period to once a month to avoid fertilizer burn.
Pruning
The Dendrobium galeatum Sw. plant should be pruned after blooming. Cut the stem above the highest node where the flowers have bloomed. This will encourage the growth of new shoots, which will produce flowers the following year. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems as soon as possible.
Propagation of Dendrobium galeatum Sw.
Dendrobium galeatum Sw. can be propagated using three main methods: division, back bulbs, and by seed.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Dendrobium galeatum. It involves separating the plant at the roots into two or more sections, each with a shoot and a healthy root system. The best time to divide the plant is during the growing season when the shoots are actively growing. It is essential to ensure that each section has at least one healthy pseudobulb to support new growth. The new sections should be potted individually in fresh, well-draining orchid mix and placed in bright but indirect light. The soil should be kept evenly moist, and fertilizer should be applied every two weeks to promote new growth.
Back bulbs
Back bulbs are sections of old pseudobulbs that are no longer actively growing. They can be removed from the parent plant during division or pruning and used to propagate new plants. Back bulbs can produce new shoots and roots if potted individually in fresh orchid mix and kept in a warm and humid environment. It is essential to ensure that the back bulb has at least one healthy eye or node, as this is where new growth will emerge. The new plantlet should be repotted once new growth is established.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Dendrobium galeatum by seed is possible but requires patience and careful attention to detail. It involves pollinating the flowers by hand, allowing the seed pods to mature, and then harvesting the tiny seeds. The seeds should be germinated on nutrient-rich agar or orchid mix and kept in a warm and humid environment. It can take up to several years for a seedling to reach maturity, and it is essential to provide adequate care and attention throughout the process.
Disease and Pest Management for Dendrobium Galeatum Sw.
Dendrobium galeatum Sw., commonly called the Green Belly Orchid, is a beautiful flowering plant native to Southeast Asia. However, like all plants, it is vulnerable to diseases and pests that can cause deformities, discoloration, or even death of the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Dendrobium galeatum and how to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections can cause black spots, cankers, softening of tissues, and rotting. To manage the disease, remove and destroy affected plant parts and apply copper-based fungicides.
Fungal Infections: Fungal infections usually manifest as leaf spots, yellowing, and wilting. Provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal infections. Use a fungicide containing copper or sulfur to manage the infection.
Viral Infections: Viruses can cause yellow streaking patterns on the leaves, stunted growth, and mottling. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections. The best method of management is to remove and destroy infected plants.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are common pests that are characterized by webbing and stippled leaves. To control spider mites, use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or predatory mites.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are sap-sucking pests that can cause deformation, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, apply alcohol or soap solution directly on the insects and repeat weekly until they are eliminated.
Scale Insects: Scale insects appear as brown bumps on the foliage and can cause leaf yellowing and wilting. Prune and throw away severely affected plant parts and apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control the pests.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your Dendrobium galeatum Sw. healthy and vibrant.
