Paradise Orchids and Dendrobiums
One of the ideal beginner orchids is a dendrobium. Why? Because paradise orchids do well with very little care. These types of plants will thrive more in a neglected environment then they would in an over indulgent one.
So if you are the type of individual who babies their plants, gives yourself a break, and relax with a dendrobium. And if you’re intimidated by orchids or don’t have a lot of time on your hand, try to grow a dendrobium. You will be thankful that you did.
Natural Environment for Dendrobiums:
The name Dendrobiums is Greek for tree (dendros) and life (bio): this name originated from the fact that most of these orchids are naturally found either growing on trees or on large rocks. Originally from South East Asia and Australia, these plants can now be found in almost any naturally warm, humid environment. With over 1500 species of dendrobium orchids; there is a huge variance in the type of flowers, leaves, and even the height of the plant. This gives the orchid lover, lots of opportunities to try out the different varieties and to find the specific plant that speaks to them.
Nobile Dendrobiums:
These are one of the easiest varieties of dendrobiums to grow; however, they can be a bit challenging to get on a regular blooming schedule. One of the tricks to getting this plant to flower is to allow a dry, cooler time during winter (dormant) months. Without it, it is nearly impossible to get back onto a blooming schedule.
These gorgeous flowers range in colour from white to magenta, and have even been found to have yellow or brown tones. Some of these varieties will even have a contrasting colour in the centre of the flower; increasing the dramatic impact to your home environment.
New Guinea Dendrobiums:
These varieties of dendrobiums require a little more maintenance then their nobile counterparts. If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, try out this beautiful variety. Two simple tricks of the trade are to never let this species dry out and to fertilize the plant regularly. However, be cautious, as overwatering and over fertilizing can be just as damaging.
Australian Dendrobiums
The species Dendrobium Kingianum are one of the easiest varieties to grow of the Australian Dendrobiums. The sprays of these plants can have anywhere from 2-10 flowers on it, making an incredibly beautiful show. This variety prefers an intermediate climate, with weekly misting to increase the humidity in the area. To encourage flowering, allow for a cooler, drier period to give you plant a bit of rest. After its’ dormant period, give a fertilizer high in phosphorus to encourage the blooms to sprout.
Light Requirements:
In general, most dendrobiums like bright, distilled light. A sunny room with a light sheer curtain is the ideal space for this orchid. Keep your orchid by a window, but not on the window sill. If you don’t have a naturally bright room, you can compensate by providing artificial florescent lights.
Humidity:
Dendrobiums, like most tropical plants, love humidity. These plants naturally come from temperate, humid climates, so they thrive in an environment that can replicate their natural one. If you reside in an area with drier seasons, place a humidifier or a large tray with water near your orchid to increase the humidity. Another trick of the trade is to mist the orchid flowers or the room itself to add in additional humidity to the room.
Temperature:
The majority of the dendrobium varieties like a warmer climate, so keep the home warm. An ideal temperature for this variety is 65 degrees at night, with a high 70s low 80s during the day.
During the dormant period the temperature in the room can be a bit cooler, but be careful that it never drops below 45 degrees.
With the vast amount of choice in paradise orchids and dendrobiums, you will be certain to find a plant that is suited for you. Start off with one of the simpler varieties, and once you have it blooming on a regular basis, challenge yourself with a higher maintenance plant. The main challenge with growing dendrobiums is finding the space to house all of your selections.
