New to Dendrobiums-bloom cycle

[jen.kirsten]

Hi guys! I just acquired a Dendrobium and being that I've only had Phals in the past, I have no idea how to care for this one. It has quite a few stalks with healthy leaves and one stalk with flowers that were dried up. I checked the potting medium and it was nice and moist (not sopping wet) but when I picked up the pot all the dried flowers fell off. I'm only assuming it's at the end of the bloom cycle since there are new stalks popping up. Any quick tips on watering/feeding general care of this type of orchid? Thank you all! PS the roots look okay as far as I can tell. Are they supposed to be super skinny? Phals have such big fat roots!

[WhiteRabbit]

Do you know what type of Den you have? Can you post a photo? It is most likely a Den-Phal type, or possibly nobile type.

Yes, they will have finer roots than a Phal.

For Den-phals, media should approach dry before watering, but shouldn't be allowed to remain dry.

Nobile types like to remain lightly moist while growing in the spring, summer - but need a dry (no fert, bright and cool) rest in winter in order to bloom. Not giving the rest won't harm the plant, but it won't bloom the following spring, and probably make lots of keikis instead

[jen.kirsten]

Thank you! I'm reading from work this morning so I'll get a pic posted as soon as I can. I didn't add any water yesterday of course The plant looks fine with new canes (I now know better than to call them stalks lol) and new leaves. I'm excited to take care of this one!