Dendrobium orchids prefer bright, indirect light. A spot near a south or east-facing window is ideal, as they need more light than many other orchid types. Be cautious of direct sun during midday, which can cause sunburn on the leaves. If leaves become too dark or limp, they may not be getting enough light, while a reddish tint could indicate excess light.

When using artificial light, Dendrobiums typically need stronger light than Phalaenopsis. Position them about a foot away from a grow light, and provide around 12-14 hours of light daily to encourage blooming.

Dendrobiums have varied temperature needs, depending on the type. For example, Dendrobium nobile and similar cool-growing types prefer daytime temperatures of 65-75°F, with a drop to 50-55°F at night. Warmer-growing species, such as Dendrobium phalaenopsis, thrive in temperatures between 70-85°F during the day and 60-65°F at night.

Most Dendrobiums benefit from a slight day-night temperature variation to help trigger flowering. Avoid exposing them to extreme heat, especially for cool-growing varieties, as this can stress the plants.

Dendrobium orchids enjoy moderate humidity levels of around 50-70%. During the growing season, maintaining higher humidity helps them thrive, but they can tolerate lower humidity in their dormant period.

If the air is dry, use humidity trays or a room humidifier, especially for cool-growing varieties, which need a moister environment. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal or bacterial issues that can arise in stagnant, humid air.

Watering needs vary significantly depending on the type of Dendrobium and its growth cycle. During the active growing season (spring to summer), water regularly, allowing the potting medium to dry slightly between waterings. In most cases, watering once a week is suitable, but frequency may increase during hot weather or for plants with abundant roots.

Many Dendrobium orchids, particularly the nobile types, enter a dormancy phase in the fall or winter. During this period, significantly reduce watering or even stop watering altogether until new growth appears. Warmer-growing varieties, like Dendrobium phalaenopsis, may require less dramatic changes, but they will also benefit from a reduction in water during the cooler months.

Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. For Dendrobiums that enter dormancy, stop fertilizing in the late fall until new growth begins in spring. Warmer-growing types can continue to receive occasional fertilizing throughout the year, though less frequently during the cooler months.

As with other orchids, it’s important to flush the potting medium with plain water once a month to avoid salt buildup from fertilizers.

Repot Dendrobiums every 2-3 years or when the potting medium begins to break down. They prefer a well-draining orchid mix with materials like bark, perlite, and charcoal. Avoid repotting during the plant’s dormancy or while it's in bloom. The best time to repot is at the start of the growing season when new roots begin to appear.

When repotting, handle the roots with care, as Dendrobiums often have large, stiff roots that can be prone to damage if manipulated too much.

Dendrobiums often need a specific environmental trigger to initiate blooming, such as a period of cooler nighttime temperatures or a distinct dry period during dormancy. If your plant is growing well but not flowering, check if it is receiving sufficient light, especially during the blooming season, as many Dendrobiums are light-demanding.

Additionally, failing to provide the necessary temperature drop or withholding water during dormancy can prevent blooming, especially in Dendrobium nobile types. Make sure you understand the seasonal requirements for your specific type of Dendrobium to encourage blooms.