Question
I have a dendrobium orchid that has put out several flower spikes over the past couple of months, but most of the spikes are drying up without producing any buds.  There were 2 spikes that did have buds, but most of the buds dried up and only 2 or 3 flowers bloomed.  I live in Hawaii and this plant is a common purple and white dendrobium (like those used for Hawaiian lei). It was previously growing outside next to a wall where it was getting more direct sunlight but I thought it might be getting too much sun so I moved it to where it is now. The orchid is now placed under the shade of the outer edge of a large tree so it gets some direct sunlight, but mostly filtered sunlight.  This is a well-established plant that has bloomed in the past. Can you offer suggestions on what may be causing the lack of buds on the flower spikes and the drying of buds that do form?  Thanks!

Answer
Claire, it is possible that moving the plant to a different environment caused a problem with budding. A change of environment, especially at sensitive times such as budding, can disrupt budding. Remember, that in changing the location of the plant, not only have you altered obvious factors such as light, but more subtle changes such as air movement and humidity are affected. If a plant has done well in a certain location, it is best to avoid the risk of moving it to a location that may not be as favorable. High light promotes flowering. I would move it to a lower light condition only if, and when, you observe leaf burning.  The old adage "if it isn't broke don't fix it" could apply.