Dendrobium

...

Light

Sufficient light is important for healthy growth and flower production. Provide bright light, to 50 percent sun. In the home, an east, west or lightly shaded south window. In a greenhouse, about 30 to 50 percent of full sun. Under lights, four 40-watt flourescent tubes and two 40-watt incandescent bulbs directly over plants.

Plants should be naturally erect, without need of much staking, and of a medium olive-green color.

Temperature

Mature plants need a 15-20° F difference between night and day. Provide nights of 60-65° F; days of 80-90° F. Temperatures up to 95-100° F are beneficial if humidity and air circulation are increased. Low temperatures (below 50° F) may cause leaf drop.

Water

Keep evenly moist while in active growth. Allow to dry between waterings after growth is mature (indicated by terminal leaf).

Humidity

Dendrobiums need 50 to 60 percent. In the home, place on trays over moistened pebbles. In a greenhouse, use a humidifier if conditions are too dry.

Fertilizer

Should be provided on a regular basis during the active growing period. 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.

Potting

Dendrobiums should be potted in a porous, free-draining media. Repotting should be done every two to three years before the mix loses consistency (breaks down). Pot firmly in medium, giving aeration and ample drainage, allowing enough room for two years of growth. Dendrobiums grow best in pots small for the size of the plant.