Question From:
Julie in Deception Bay, Deception Bay QLD
Nature of problem:
My dendrobium orchid has not flowered..It was in flower when it was given to me for mother’s day 2015 ..also, what is the best way to removed the dead twiggy stems after flowering..it still has 2 [see photo ]
Type of Plant (if known):
Dendrobium Orchid
Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
Not flowering..healthy soil, healthy plant
Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
Orchid mix
How often do you water the plant:
spray daily in summer.water when dry ..about once to twice per week
How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
It gets wonderful filtered light from the entry door side opaque glass panel ..my african violet love it there too.. from sunrise till around 9.30 – 10am it gets nearly full [filtered by the opsun, but never burns, then shade with lovely filtered light
What type of plant is it:
Dendrobium Orchid
How long since you planted it:
It is in a pot..I replanted it after it ceased to flower, around october 2015..mother’s day gift 2015, was a mass of beautiful flowers..
Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
Plant Health Triple Boost worm fish seaweed based fertiliser ..aussie made and owned, bought from, plant shack deception bay used diluted once a month..
Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
Indoors opaque glass light morning sun till 9.30 -10am..then softer light
Is the plant in a pot or in the ground:
In a pot
What other treatments have you given the plant:
nil..just water and feed..It is healthy, but does not flower
Upload photo if available:
dendrobium orchid and african violet.jpg
Other Comments:
Overcast to day, not cold, sun comes out occasionally 26c
Answer: Hi Julie, The plant is very healthy..well done! Your problems are not enough light and the wrong fertiliser. Give it at least 3 hours of light per day, perhaps near a slightly sunnier window. Stop fertilising but commence fertilising with an orchid food VERY SPARINGLY after it starts to flower. Maybe a little less water too. The same applies to the african violet. Don
