Dendrobium Nobile Culture

Temperature Range

• A 10 to 15 degree Fahrenheit difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures is preferred by most orchids, including Dendrobium nobile, even during their dormancy stage. Gardeners in cool climates can easily achieve this during the summer months by moving their orchid to a semi-shady spot outdoors in June and leaving it there until the nighttime temperatures hit the 50 degree F range. During winter months, move the orchid into an unused room where the daytime and nighttime temperatures can be adjusted to suit their needs.

Light Requirements

• Dendrobium nobile is an ideal choice for an orchid to grow in a window since it does like some direct light. Watch the leaves for signs of brown spots and if they appear, move the orchid a little farther away from the window. These brown spots are likely signs of sunburn. If a window is not an option, or the orchid is not receiving adequate light, supplement the natural light the plant receives with grow lights. Once the flowers begin to bloom, move the orchid out of direct light to prolong the flowering period.

Water and Humidity

• Orchids love humidity, but dislike wet feet. Bark chips are the best growing medium for Dendrobium nobile because they allow any water they cannot hold to quickly drain off. There is not a set rule for how often to water orchids because so many variables come into play, so the best way to know when to water is by how the bark chips feel. Stick your finger an inch or so into the bark. If it feels dry, water with rainwater or distilled water that is room temperature. Water these plants more during the summer than during the winter. Sit the pot in a saucer filled with pebbles and mist as needed to keep the humidity level at 50 percent.

Other Considerations

• Occasionally Dendrobium nobile loses a portion of its leaves. This can happen even when it is in bloom. This is normal and nothing to worry about as long as the plant still looks the same. Fertilization of this particular species is another concern. This variety needs a balanced orchid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20, from March through August. Follow the label directions on the fertilizer taking care not to over-fertilize the plant. Finally, re-pot the orchid every two years in spring or summer and when you do, look at your plant to see if division is necessary. Be sure to remove any dead or damaged roots and keep a close eye on your orchid until it begins to root into the new bark.