Here we are focusing attention to
the Dendrobium orchid care. These are one of the most popular of retail orchid
plants. They are also a true epiphyte or air plant. Their pseudobulbs can gather and
hold water very efficiently. There is a hybrid between Phalaenopsis and
Dendrobium, commonly known as Dtps. It is very beautiful and almost as easy to grow as Phalaenopsis. If you have some straight forward easy information
you will be able to grow Dendrobium orchids.
Potting
This needs only to be done every two to
three years. They should be placed in a porous, free draining media. This may be with a
combination of wood chips, small stones and and even pieces of styrofoam peanuts. This
will allow water and fertilizer to to drain. And will help with air circulation. Dendrobium orchids like to be somewhat cramped in their pots so it is best to make sure the roots are in the smallest appropriate orchid pot.
Lighting
The Dendrobium orchids require about 50%
sun or bright light. They will do well in an east or west window as well as a
shaded south window.
They also do well under 4 - 40 watt
fluorescent lights directly over the plant.
Temperature
Dendrobium orchids require a difference in
temperature between the night and day to aid in blooming. Preferably this difference should be
about 10 - 15 degrees. The night temps they like is 60-65 F. with days up to 80 -
90 F.
Good air circulation is needed and is especially
when the temps are above 90 degrees F.
Water
Like most orchids, growing Dendrobiums need to be
kept slightly moist while actively growing. When it is mature and after the blooming, as are most of
orchids-plus-more.com plants they should dry
between watering. This is important to help incourage them to bloom in another season.
Dendrobiums thrive when the humidity is
about 50 - 60%. Humidity trays are usually needed while the plant is in the
home.
Fertilizer
Another aspect of good Dendrobium orchid care is the use of a balanced fertilizer like Jack's
Classic or Miracle Grow 20-20-20. Use weakly, weekly. That is, use a solution which is between
1/4 to 1/2 the recommended dosage.