Dendrobium kingianum potting advice

[Paphluvr]

I picked up a Dend. kingianum this weekend at the Ann Arbor show. Five canes in a 2” pot. What I didn’t realize at the time was that it is potted in sphagnum moss. As it is ready to enter its rest period I know that this isn’t a good time to repot. Any suggestions appreciated.

[estación seca]

I would leave it in the moss over the winter rather than repot at the wrong time. It needs some but not that much winter water. It is not a deciduous plant so it shouldn't drop leaves; if it does, it's probably not getting enough water.

When you water, don't soak the moss; just dribble a little water on top. It will diffuse through the moss and leave the roots with a little humidity. In the Spring you can repot it when it just starts making roots.

Moss works well for people who are busy with other things and sometimes let their plants get too dry. If you have time to look at your plants frequently bark or LECA will also work.

Most Dendrobiums in moss can be watered to the soaking point during the growing season if temperatures are correct. They use that much water.

[Subrosa]

Kingianum often grows lithophytically, and responds very well to semi-hydroponic culture in LECA. But waiting until spring to repot is probably wise.