Potting Soil for Dendrobiums

Watering Needs

• The one absolute of Dendrobium care is good drainage. Water Dendrobiums until some water drains out of the bottom of the pot, then allow them to dry a bit before watering again. A planting medium that stays wet will lead to root rot and plant death.

Orchid Bark

• Garden centers and nurseries carry tree bark chips packaged especially for orchids. Gently tie the orchid stem to a stake if the chips don't provide adequate support to keep the plant steady.

Osmunda Fiber

• Osmunda fiber, the dried roots of the Osmunda fern, is another option for potting Dendrobiums. However, it's expensive and hard to find. To use osmunda fiber, soak the fiber until pliable, then squeeze out extra water. Use a chopstick to pack the fiber around the roots of the orchid until the orchid is stable in its pot. Unused osmunda fiber will keep indefinitely if stored in a dry location.