If you’re looking for a truly stunning and diverse houseplant, look no further than the dendrobium – exotic orchid species. This group offers incredible variety, and with a few simple tips, you can enjoy their spectacular blooms. They are more adaptable than many people think, making them a fantastic choice for both new and experienced growers.
Let’s get you started on the right foot with these beautiful plants.
Dendrobium – Exotic Orchid Species
Dendrobiums are one of the largest orchid genera, with over a thousand species. They are native to a vast area, from Australia and Southeast Asia to the Himalayas. This wide range means their care needs can vary, but most popular hybrids are quite forgiving.
You’ll often find two main types in stores: the evergreen nobile types and the deciduous phalaenopsis types. Knowing which you have is key to proper care.
Essential Care for Your Dendrobium Orchid
Getting the basics right is the secret to success. These core elements will keep your plant healthy and ready to flower.
Light: The Key to Flowering
Dendrobiums love bright, indirect light. An east-facing window is often perfect. A south or west window can work too, but you might need a sheer curtain to prevent leaf scorch.
- Signs of too much light: Leaves turn yellowish or develop bleached spots.
- Signs of too little light: Leaves are very dark green and the plant refuses to bloom.
Watering: A Delicate Balance
Overwatering is the most common mistake. These orchids prefer to dry out a bit between waterings.
- Water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes.
- Let all excess water drain away completely.
- Wait until the potting mix is nearly dry before watering again. This might be weekly or bi-weekly.
Potting Mix and Repotting
Never use regular potting soil. Dendrobiums need a chunky, fast-draining medium.
- A mix of orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss is ideal.
- Repot every 2-3 years, or when the mix starts to break down.
- Choose a pot that’s only slightly larger than the rootball; they like to be snug.
Seasonal Secrets for Spectacular Blooms
Mimicking their natural seasonal cycles is the trick to trigger flowering. This is especially important for deciduous nobile dendrobiums.
Spring and Summer: The Growth Phase
This is when your plant is actively growing new leaves and canes (called pseudobulbs).
- Water and fertilize regularly with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
- You can move them to a shaded spot outdoors in summer for extra humidity.
Fall: Triggering Flower Spikes
As temperatures drop and daylight decreases, reduce watering. For nobile types, stop fertilizing completely. The cooler nights and drier conditions signal that it’s time to bloom.
Winter: The Resting Period
Water very sparingly during this time, just enough to prevent the canes from shriveling. They need this rest to produce flowers. Once you see new flower buds forming, you can slowly resume normal care.
Common Problems and Simple Solutions
Even the best gardeners encounter issues. Here’s how to fix common ones.
No Flowers?
This is usually due to insufficient light or missing the seasonal rest period. Ensure it gets enough bright light and give it that cooler, drier rest in the fall.
Yellowing Leaves
A few older leaves yellowing is normal. Many yellow leaves can mean overwatering. Check the roots! Soft, brown roots indicate rot.
Pests to Watch For
Keep an eye out for scale, mealybugs, and spider mites. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth regularly. For infestations, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the instructions carefully.
Propagating Your Dendrobiums
You can create new plants from your existing one. The easiest method is by dividing the plant during repotting.
- Remove the plant from its pot and gently seperate the root mass.
- Look for natural divisions with at least three healthy canes per section.
- Use a sterile knife to cut through connecting rhizomes if needed.
- Pot each new division seperately in fresh orchid mix.
You can also look for “keikis” (baby plants) that sometimes form on the cane. When they have several roots of their own, you can carefully detach and pot them.
Choosing Your First Dendrobium
For beginners, hybrid dendrobiums are the best choice. They are bred to be robust and forgiving. Look for plants with firm, green canes and healthy, unblemished leaves. A plant with a new flower spike is always a good bet, as it’s already in a blooming cycle.
Some popular beginner-friendly hybrids include Dendrobium kingianum (the Pink Rock Orchid) and the many Den. phalaenopsis hybrids, which have long-lasting sprays of flowers.
FAQ About Dendrobium Orchids
How often do dendrobium orchids bloom?
Most types bloom once a year, typically in late winter or spring. With excellent care, some may surprise you with a second flush.
Should I cut the flower spike after blooming?
For phalaenopsis-type dendrobiums, you can cut the old spike near the base. For nobile types, the flowers appear directly on the cane; do not cut the cane, as it may rebloom or produce keikis.
Why are the leaves on my dendrobium falling off?
For deciduous types, this is completely normal before the winter rest period. Evergreen types should not lose all there leaves; if they do, check for root rot or severe stress.
Can I grow dendrobiums in water?
While some orchids adapt to water culture, dendrobiums generally do not. Their roots need air and are prone to rot in constant moisture. It’s best to stick with a traditional chunky orchid mix.
With their graceful canes and profusion of colorful blooms, dendrobiums bring a real touch of the tropics to any home. Paying attention to their light and seasonal needs is the most important thing. Once you understand their rhythm, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular display year after year.