How to Grow Dendrobium Orchids

The dendrobium orchid is a popular orchid plant. The dendrobium orchids encompass one hundred different species all varying in shape and size. The dendrobium orchids come in evergreen and deciduous varieties. They have been known to grow on rocks, in trees, in extreme weather conditions and high elevations. Growing your own dendrobium orchids is a simple process.

Things You'll Need

• Small clay pot
• Potting medium
• Fertilizer

Instructions

1. Plant your dendrobium orchid seeds in a damp, well draining potting medium, such as small stones, wood chips or Styrofoam peanuts. Dendrobiums thrive in small spaces, so plant your orchid seeds in the smallest pot possible.

2. Grow your dendrobium orchids in strong natural sunlight. If you are growing them indoors, place them under four 40-watt fluorescent bulbs. If the orchids do not get enough light, your plant can develop tiny platelets on the older canes.

3. Water your dendrobium orchids often (once a week) during growing periods, but once the plant blooms, allow it to dry out between watering. Dendrobiums thrive in high humidity.

4. Add a balanced fertilizer to the soil every week. Cut the manufacturer's recommended concentration by half. A good fertilizer choice for the dendrobium orchid is Miracle Grow 20-20-20.

5. Allow your orchids to grow in a well-ventilated area. Dendrobium orchids need the day temperature and the night temperature to differ by at least 20 degrees. The standard temperature for growing orchids is at least 60 degrees F.

Tips & Warnings

• Drop the nighttime temperature and withhold water to encourage a bloom.

• If a dendrobium orchid cane loses its leaves, do not cut them off; flowers can bloom from old canes.

References

• Orchids.com: Dedrobium Care