Dark leaves on Dendrobium phalaenopsis good?

[grahamjo1985]

Hello! I have been an orchid grower for only a short time now and i am loving it! I have read a lot on light needs and color of leaves and was wondering if this particular orchid should have darker leaves or lighter leaves. Any information would be much appreciated. Thank you!

[Dollythehun]

That is a nice looking plant. My Den Phals are that color. Don't freak if it eventually loses leaves, they do that sfter a few years. Mine summer outside in bright shade. I water only when the pots feel light. Mine looks like crud but has 5 flower spikes!

[grahamjo1985]

Is 3 hours of full morning sun good for this guy? I have had this Orchid for about a year and the tallest cane is all new growth since i purchased this orchid. I have not seen any lowers yet Do you have any suggestions as to why it may nt be blooming?

[Dollythehun]

From my experience, mine blooms after the new cane matures. Is there any light after the 3 hours? Mine did well with Phal light 1500 ft candles all day but too big so it moved to a south window and it's fine. Give it more light if you can but be careful not to burn it with hot sun. The other members will chime in soon.

[grahamjo1985]

It gets east facing window light after the morning sun.

[Dollythehun]

Originally Posted by grahamjo1985

It gets east facing window light after the morning sun.

My opinion is that should be good. However if you can safely give it more light, do it. One thing my orchids have taught me is patience.

[grahamjo1985]

There is also a very small amount of black obn the one leaf tip. should i be concerned?

[Dollythehun]

That plant looks waaaay better than mine. Stop worrying.😉

[Leafmite]

The orchid looks good. If you are concerned about the black spot, watch it for a few days. If it stays the same, I would not worry about it.

Many of these bloom on old canes, too, as long as they stay green. If it is not blooming, it might need more light.