Dendrobium Orchids are a lot sturdier than most orchids as they grow in all climatic conditions ranging from cool mountainous terrains to hot lowlands.
They belong to the Dendrobium genus which is very large, having over 2000 different species or types.
The Dendrobium orchid plant is epiphytic and can be found growing in different regions of Southeast Asia.
With such a large number of different species, they vary in appearance spotting different colors and shapes but Dendrobiums, in general, are known for having abundant blooms.
These epiphytic perennial plants have a fast growth speed as it takes 4 weeks to start producing buds.
| Botanical Name | Dendrobium Spp |
| Common Names | Dendrobium Orchid |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Plant Type | Epiphytic flowering perennial |
| Full Size | Ranges from 6 inches to 48 inches in both height and spread |
| Sun Exposure | Partial shade to indirect sunlight |
| Growth Media | Well-draining orchid medium |
Dendrobium Types
Members of the Dendrobium orchids are classified into 5 groups. Each of these groups has species that possess different traits and growth habits. They are;
- Dendrobium spatulata: Members of this group bloom all year round without needing rest.
- Latoria: Their appearance ranges from green to yellow.
- Dendrobium phalaenopsis: Members of this group are evergreen-producing blooms in warm conditions.
- Formosae: They do better when grown in cooler climatic conditions.
- Callista: They are more flexible, surviving different climatic conditions.
Orchid Dendrobium Care
Dendrobium Orchids care needs can vary depending on the species of the large genus. However, understanding their basic light, water, and temperature requirements is crucial to proper growth.
Light Requirement for Dendrobium Orchids
Depending on where you are growing the Dendrobium plant, their sunlight needs often differ. Outdoor Dendrobiums require partial shade to flourish while indoor grown dendrobiums would require a room with sufficient bright but indirect lighting.
Dendrobiums don’t grow very tall, so growing them close to a large tree outdoors would be ideal for the plant’s lighting requirement.
While indoors, grow your dendrobium orchid in a pot close to a Windsor for access to sunlight. Use a light curtain to filter the sun’s harsh rays during the afternoon period.
Excess sunlight might lead to the production of yellow leaves while too little sunlight can cause keikis, which is a tiny upgrowth on the body of the Dendrobium canes.
Dendrobium Water Requirements
Frequent watering is a must for the Dendrobium plant during its growing season as the Growing media should be kept moist at all times.
Be sure not to overdo it as wet media can leave the plant open to root rots and other forms of fungal or bacteria attack.
Water the dendrobium plant once every week during growing seasons and limit it by a few days during the winter season. Always let the media dry out a little before watering.
Always use dechlorinated water for your watering as the chemicals used in tap water would harm the plant.
Soil Requirements for Dendrobium Orchids
They are epiphytic so they don’t require potting soil. Use an orchid-suitable medium that is mixed with fir bark or perlite and peat moss.
The most essential requirement for the growing medium used is that it must be well-draining and that it holds enough moisture.
Temperature and Humidity Requirements for Dendrobium Orchids
Humidity should be kept between 45% to 70% for the Dendrobium Orchid, this should be achieved with the use of a humidifier while indoors or through regular misting.
Keep temperature levels between 50 degrees Fahrenheit to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They survive most climatic conditions but excess cold isn’t best for Dendrobiums.
Fertilizer Requirement for Dendrobiums
Use an Orchid fertilizer for the Dendrobium plant often during the growing season and then limit use during the winter season.
Propagating Dendrobiums
Dendrobium Orchids can be propagated in 2 ways, these are;
- Seed propagation
- Stem Cutting
Be sure to sterilize all tools used when propagating through stem cuttings
Repotting Dendrobiums
Repot your Dendrobiums every 2 or 3 years as they don’t grow very tall or wide. Use a bigger pot when needed and ensure it has sufficient holes at the base of the pot.
Common Health Problems of Dendrobium Orchids
- Root rot
- Scorched leaves (from excess fertilizer)
- Spotted yellow leaves
- Mealybugs
- Petal blight
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Dendrobiums are known to reproduce blooms from new pseudobulbs in springtime.
White Dendrobiums require regular misting and you feed them once a month in their growing season.
They can be grown both outdoors and indoors but it’s better to grow them indoors where lighting can be regulated.
Yes, they do. But ensure it is bright and indirect sunlight.
Dendrobium orchids can live for as long as 15 years.
