Question
Hi.
I have two dendrobium orchids that refuse to bloom.  It's been about a year since I bought them (in bloom) and though they've produced a lot of new growth, they have yet to rebloom.  I am getting concerned that I am doing something wrong.
They are currently in terracotta orchid pots and are potted in Better-Gro orchid bark and have very good drainage.  I only water them when they are just getting to dry and I fertilize every other week.  I have been using a 20-20-20 fertilizer, and every 4th time I fertilize using a 11-35-15 bloom booster, then I flush with regular water the following watering.  The pots are close to a heater, so I know they're right around 70 degrees, and they're about a foot away from a window (not in direct light) and under the florescent lights in my office.  The leaves are perky and a nice jade green color, and like I said, new growth is profuse.  The pots are sitting on gravel for humidity and I periodically mist the leaves.
Please advise as to possible reasons that my otherwise healthy-seeming plants are not blooming.
Thank you.

Answer
Ann, dendrobiums generally go through a rest period which, in nature, corresponds to a dry period environmentally. Continuous watering and feeding stimulates the plant to continue to produce new growth.  I recommend that you go dry and try to simulate the dry period these plants experience in nature.  Just mist a little once or twice to prevent excessive shrinkage of the canes.  You may also consider increasing light level. The canes should be straw colored.  Deep green leaves may look pretty, but they are an indication that the plant is in a low light condition-- a condition not conducive to flowering. The plant's dry period is naturally concluded when it starts to send out new growth.  At that time you can resume watering and feeding.