Deciduous Dendrobiums are a special type of orchid species which require a distinct rest in order to rebloom, mimicking natural habitat in the wild.
During spring and summer most of them will be in full vegetative growth, meaning they will grow new canes and leaves. This is the time when they require plenty of water and fertilizer.
Come autumn most will stop growing and, as the season progresses, they will start to lose all or most of their leaves. At this time it is best to reduce watering and stop altogether when all or most of their leaves have fallen.
Usually at the end of winter they will start to produce buds along the canes and will bloom in spring time. At the time the buds start to form it is ok to offer water, increasing it gradually. Canes will let you know if they need more water by shriveling excessively.
While or after the blooms fall the orchid will start new vegetative growth and the cycle will begin again.
Most common deciduous Dendrobium species are the parishii, anosmum, aphyllum and their hybrids, but there are others, so research your Dendrobium before starting to worry about leaf loss.
