The Spray Orchid
Denbrobiums are among the most
commonly encountered orchids in the retail trade. Like most other
cultivated orchids, dendrobiums are epiphytes, or air plants. They
have well-developed water-storage organs (pseudobulbs), often
called "canes" for their upright, leafy appearance. They
should be potted in porous, free-draining media.
There are many different types of dendrobiums available to the
specialist grower. However, hybrids involving Den. phalaenopsis
are what you will most often encounter.
Keep evenly moist while in active growth. Allow to dry between
waterings after growth is mature (indicated by terminal leaf.)
Should be done every two to three years before mix loses
consistency (breaks down). Pot firmly in medium, giving aeration
and ample drainage, allowing enough room for two years’ growth.
Dendrobiums grow best in pots small for the size of the plant.
Sufficient light is important for healthy growth and flower
Provide: Bright light, to
50 percent sun. In the home, an east, west or lightly shaded south
window. In a greenhouse, about 30-50 percent of full sun. Under
lights, four 40 watt fluorescent tubes and two 40 watt
incandescent bulbs directly over plants. Plants should be
naturally erect, without need of (much) staking, and of a medium
plants need a 15 to 20 F difference between night and day
Provide: Nights of 60 to 65 F
days of 80 to 90 F. Temperatures up to 95 to 100 F are beneficial
if humidity and air circulation are increased. Low temperatures
(below 50F) may cause leaf drop.
Humidity: Dendrobiums need 50 to 60
percent. In the home, place on trays over moistened pebbles. In
greenhouse, use a humidifier if conditions are too dry.
Should be provided on a regular basis during the active growing
Provide: The exact fertilizer
you use will depend on the mix in which your plant is growing. A
good general rule is to apply a balanced (10-10-10, 12-12-12, or
similar ratio) fertilizer "weakly, weekly" during the
period of active growth. That is, fertilize every week at one
quarter to one half of the recommended dilution.