Orchid Tips

Site selection 

Temperature

Dendrobiums grow best when night temperatures do not drop below 65°F and day temperatures are between 75°F and 85°F. Under the cooler temperature conditions experienced at higher elevations in Hawaii, dendrobium plants are less productive and their flower sprays are weaker than those grown near sea level.

Site selection considerations

When choosing a site for a dendrobium farm, consider the following characteristics of an

ideal location:

• land cost and property taxes are affordable

• level topography with good drainage

• presence of natural windbreaks (tree line or hill) but not so near as   to cast a shadow on the property

• bright sunlight

• warm temperatures with nighttime lows not dropping below 65°F

• low to moderate rainfall not exceeding 4 inches monthly

• good air movement but without regular strong winds

• a reliable source of good quality water

• proximity to utilities and roads

The site should be sufficiently large to accommodate growing structures, an office, storage and service buildings, access drives, loading and parking areas, and, if desired, a dwelling. An area for a holding pond will be necessary in regions where catchment irrigation  is used. Consideration should also be given to future expansion.

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