How often to water dendrobiums

[chidlove]

Originally Posted by grasshopper

I have two dendrobiums (no id...they were free and in need of TLC) that I've been watering once a week. Watering has been a thorough watering from the top, allowing water to flow through. One is potted in a 4" clear plastic pot between what looks like 2-3 pieces of wood and the other I repotted in a 4" clay orchid pot in Better Gro orchid potting medium.

These 2 are at my office where the humidity hovers around 25-30%. I have ordered a humidity tray for them, but once it arrives I will still be left with the question of whether or not I'm watering these guys enough.

I know that they like to dry out between waterings, but I'm not sure how to know when they are dry. Any advice would be helpful.

Oh, and the canes are rather plump, but there is some ridging/shriveling, and the orchid in the wood wedges has two new shoots growing (so I'm assuming I'm doing something right with that one).

Thanks!

I had that same problem of how to tell when my dend was dry. I read somewhere on the OB,to put a wooden skewer [chop stick or the like] in beside the plant. when you check, put it against your cheek. if its still cool, you could wait anouther day or so.
I love this method, cause when the skewer is dry, I go ahead and water confidently!
Congrats on the new shoots! isnt that Great!