I just recently got a dendrochilum wenzelii and I'm trying desperately to give it the proper conditions -- but the humidity is the one I'm struggling with. Also, trying hard to not overwater -- From what I read it sounds like a real water hog - but i've also heard that you CAN overwater. Would a mist humidifier near the plant be too much humidity or cause mildew? or should a small fan be used as well? It's my first attempt at an orchid -- not sure i chose the correct one. It did have blooms when purchased. Should those now be cut off since they have dried out and lost their brilliant color? And where to cut? At the very base? Any tips would be appreciated! thanks
The old spikes can be clipped down to the base (just be careful not to cut leaves in the process), better to leave the bits at the base than to be too aggressive, they will fall off of their own accord eventually.
You can compensate for low humidity by simply watering more frequently.
I've got the red and yellow varieties. Both are watered sev. times a week and kept under growlights. Yellow just finished blooms but red is still asleep. Have read and experienced they don't appreciate repotting and do like roots somewhat cramped in pot. Probably why red is not doing anything for me. I can wait.
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It is in an east facing window in a small basket with sphagnum moss. Temps in the house are between 65 and 68 - summer will be a bit warmer. I've been watering every other day. I decided to try it in the bathroom window (also east facing) for some increased humidity.