Dendrobium care guide
Dendrobium
Also known as: Dendrobium orchid, Nobile-type dendrobium, Phalaenopsis-type dendrobium
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Dendrobium
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 4 days
- While new canes grow it drinks well: water thoroughly once the surface of the medium dries, as a guide, about every three or four days in midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- In fall cut back to firm up the canes, about weekly, waiting two or three days after the medium dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 14 days
- Nobile types stay nearly dry until the buds move, about every two to three weeks, while phalaenopsis types get water roughly every ten to fourteen days.
Light and placement for Dendrobium
Full sun outdoors in spring and fall and 30 to 50 percent shade in midsummer is the guide; without enough light the canes stay thin and do not flower, and in winter a bright window is best.
Overwintering Dendrobium
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
Nobile types set buds after fall chill, so leave them outdoors until nights near about 5°C and then keep them above 5°C indoors, while phalaenopsis types are tender and want 10 to 15°C or more.
Fertilizing and repotting Dendrobium
Fertilizer
Slow-release fertilizer from April to July with liquid feed about every one to two weeks; none from August on, since fall feeding causes keikis instead of flowers.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Dendrobium
- Kept in a warm room in fall it misses the chill and does not flower.
- Too much feed and water in fall produces keikis instead of flowers.
- Drying out in summer shrivels the canes.
Tips for growing Dendrobium
- After flowering, repot in fresh moss in April or May.
- Old canes still store nutrients, so leave them until they wither.
- A keiki can be removed once its roots grow and potted as a new plant.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
