Orchids - Growing Dendrobium Orchids

Dendrobiums are inherently tropical orchids. They thrive in the warm and humid climates of the Philippines, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Australia. They can also grow quite well in cooler parts of the world. Some Dendrobium species have even been found in the Himalayan mountain ranges. In their natural habitats, Dendrobiums flourish and produce gorgeous flowers. If you want to reproduce this natural beauty in your own flower garden, here are several important things you need to keep in mind:

1. Temperature

Most species of Dendrobium are able to withstand very hot and very cold temperatures, but the ideal temperature for their growth is approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit during the night.

2. Humidity

Dendrobium orchids produce the most beautiful flowers when they are exposed to the right level of humidity at all times. If you live in a tropical climate, you probably won't have to do much except to let the natural humidity do its work. Otherwise, you can place a tray filled with water and pebbles beside your orchid plants.

3. Water

This can be quite tricky because different Dendrobium orchid varieties have different water requirements. Some Dendrobiums need to be watered frequently while others thrive with just a few sprays of water daily. Check your local nurseries to know how much water your particular variety of orchids require.

4. Soil

Most Dendrobiums are considered air plants, growing either on tree trunks or over rocks. They don't really need much soil because they simply attach themselves to the bark of a tree or the surface of rocks and use pseudopods to store water and nutrients. Some varieties, however, do need soil, in which case you will have to get your orchids a special type of mix from the local orchid nursery.

5. Sunlight

Orchids love sunlight, especially morning sunlight. Place your Dendrobium orchids in a spot where they can get as much morning sunlight as possible. Make sure, though, that they are kept in the shade during the hottest part of the day (11am to 3pm).

In addition to these basic requirements, special orchid fertilizers are also used to encourage the growth of larger and more beautiful flowers. When you use the right fertilizer for your Dendrobiums, you might even be able to enjoy the sight of orchid blooms in your garden all year round. Experts also recommend that you separate your Dendrobium orchids from other plants to minimize their exposure to pests and common plant diseases. You can do this by growing the orchids in a greenhouse or a makeshift nursery in your yard.