Is it normal for my Dendrobium to lose leaves in winter?

Some deciduous Dendrobium species naturally drop their leaves during their winter rest period. If your plant is otherwise healthy, this is likely just its natural cycle.

Can low humidity cause leaf drop?

Yes, very dry air can stress the plant. Try placing it on a humidity tray with pebbles and water to keep the air around it moist.

Dendrobium Orchid: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the roots for mushiness or a foul smell.
Check the potting medium to see if it is soggy.
Feel the air around the plant for cold drafts.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or mushy before falling off, and the roots may look dark or soft.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the potting medium dry out completely. If the roots are mushy, trim away the dead parts and repot the orchid in fresh, well draining bark.
Temperature Shock
Possible
How to tell: Leaves drop suddenly after the plant is placed near a drafty window or an air conditioning vent.
What to do: Move your orchid to a stable location away from cold drafts or direct heat sources. Keep the temperature between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit for the best results.

Find out what's wrong with your dendrobium orchid

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the plant loses all its leaves, it may be too late to save it. It is normal for an old, mature cane to lose its leaves after a few years.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the medium is nearly dry to the touch and ensure the pot has plenty of drainage holes.

Keep your dendrobium orchid healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Is it normal for my Dendrobium to lose leaves in winter?: Some deciduous Dendrobium species naturally drop their leaves during their winter rest period. If your plant is otherwise healthy, this is likely just its natural cycle.
Can low humidity cause leaf drop?: Yes, very dry air can stress the plant. Try placing it on a humidity tray with pebbles and water to keep the air around it moist.

Why is my Dendrobium orchid losing its leaves?