Dendrobium
Nobile type
There are over 1,000 Dendrobiums species.
We grow three basic types of Dendrobiums. the Phalaenanthe (Phal type) ,
and Spatulatata (Antelope type), and Nobile.
The Nobile Dendrobium is unique compared to their cousins. Most notable is the flowers bloom on the cane similar to the ceramic "chia pet." Nobiles can withstand cooler temperatures than their counterparts. Nobiles can drop their foliage in temperatures below 50F. The flowering pattern of a nobile is similar to a cymbidium orchid where the flower open all at once (3-4 Days) creating a very showy display in a short period of time.
How To Keep Your Dendrobium Healthy!
Dendrobiums and their relatives are epiphytes, naturally growing on rocks and trees. They store water and nutrients in a upright structure called a cane, which is a modified pseudobulb. Leaves are produced along the cane.
Light: Bright indirect light. Ideally, early morning direct light as in an east window. West windows are good provided direct sun is not on the orchid. Evening sun is okay. A south window with defused light or away from the direct sunlight. The foliage should be medium green color, indicating the orchid is getting enough light to flower.
Temperature: The ideal growing temperature during the day is 75 to 90°F. Higher temperatures to 100°F will require less light and more air movement to prevent sunburn on the leaves. Night temperatures can range from 55-65°F.
When the cane is mature and turning a golden yellow., temperatures should be in the low 60's to mid50's at night and during the day a maximum of 78F. This will insure flower bud development. At higher temperatures, the nodes with turn into Keki’s (new plants).
Watering: Watering should be done in the morning hours. You can water heavy overhead, or soak potted orchid in the sink for ten minutes. In cold areas, the water temperature should not be below 45°F. Water is an essential nutrient for plant development. In moderate light water once every 6 to 10 days in winter, and 5 to 7 days in summer. When in doubt, check the bottom of the pot, if it looks dry, then water. Watering with ice cubes in NOT recommended.
Feeding: Dendrobiums are heavy feeders and require fertilizing every second watering. Use Gubler’s Pro Blend Orchid Food 19-8-16. This formula is exactly what we use to grow our Dendrobiums. We recommend not feeding during the flower incitation period (late August to October.)
Repotting: Should be done once every 12 to 18 months. It is best to repot after the Dendrobium is done flowering and the new growths are visable. Plants that have overgrown their container should be potted into a suitable container the next size larger. You may choose any container, provided it has good bottom drainage. Use Gublers Grow Moss for planting in containers 6" or smaller. We do not recommend pots with slits on the side. Roots tend to grow through the slits causing root damage on the next transplant. Transplant using Gubler’s Orchid Grow Mix Coarse Grade for containers seven inch or larger.
What to expect: Flowers last from four to six weeks, depending on growing conditions. Dendrobiums grow well with Cattleyas and Phalaenopsis. They are considered good beginner orchid, and make a unique gift idea.
