Orchids are usually considered to be difficult plants to grow for beginners but Dendrobium is an exception. Dendrobium is one of the largest groups of the Orchid family and it offers a number of lovely species that are fairly easy to grow.
Dendrobiums come from a variety of climatic conditions – from Australian deserts to cold Himalayas and from the Pacific islands to warm tropics. Therefore, it is not hard to find a Dendrobium that thrives in your climate.
Generally, Dendrobiums prefer bright light, a well-drained media and plenty of fresh air to grow. Most species will grow nicely at temperatures ranging from 18 C to 25 C provided that they get adequate light and water. They can be grown as potted plants in windows sill or in hanging baskets near a sunny window. When grown outdoors, protect them from direct sunlight and humid conditions.
Dendrobiums need a well-drained media that does not retain too much water and allow the plant to develop its tender roots. A mixture of perlite, coconut fiber and clay aggregate is ideal for most species of Dendrobium. When watering, allow plenty of water to run through this media, wait for the residual water to drip and then allow it to dry up before next watering. Dendrobium are hungry plants and should be fed with general fertilizer during the growing season – usually in spring.
Dendrobiums are not only easy to grow but also one of the prolific bloomers too. Some species bloom more frequently than commonly known orchids. Some species such as Dendrobium nobile produce flowers that lasts for many months.