Troubleshooting
Dendrobium orchid problems — and how to fix them
Dendrobium orchid (Dendrobium) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Leaf drop on nobile type
Normal for deciduous types in autumn; do not panic.
No flowers
Did not receive a cool dry winter rest — usually below 15°C and dry for 6-8 weeks.
Keikis instead of flowers
Too much nitrogen feed in autumn; switch to a low-nitrogen bloom feed.
Wrinkled canes
Loss of root function from overwatering or stale mix.
Prevent dendrobium orchid problems before they start
Most dendrobium orchid issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Dendrobium orchid problems — FAQ
Why is my dendrobium orchid leaf drop on nobile type?
Normal for deciduous types in autumn; do not panic.
Why is my dendrobium orchid no flowers?
Did not receive a cool dry winter rest — usually below 15°C and dry for 6-8 weeks.
Why is my dendrobium orchid keikis instead of flowers?
Too much nitrogen feed in autumn; switch to a low-nitrogen bloom feed.
Why is my dendrobium orchid wrinkled canes?
Loss of root function from overwatering or stale mix.