Lise,
Since others have not responded yet, just a quick note: A normal 100 watt
light bulb does not provide the right spectrum for orchids. You could get
fluorescent light tubes, a combination of "warm" and "cool" light tubes--
these are normal fluorescent tubes, but two different types that together
provide a fuller light spectrum. Or get a "daylight" spectrum light bulb --
for example the one made by AgroSun. Also, 4 hours would not be nearly
enough light if you are using artificial light to grow your orchid -- since
artificial light is not nearly as efficient as sunlight, you need much
longer exposure, when growing under artificial lights. I tend to turn on my
plant lights in the morning and turn them off 12-14 hours later. However,
even with artificial lights, I don't know whether you could provide enough
light for the dendrobium, since my understanding is that they do like lots
of light, but then again I don't really know dendrobiums (I grow mostly
Phals and Paphs). I hope someone with more experience will give you a better
answer soon.
Best,
Joanna

"Lise Sedrez" wrote in message
...
Diana, thank you for the welcome. And I am here to ask again for help...
my den is suffering and I don't know what to do. I could find much
help in the sites--or maybe I couldn't see how their advice apply.

I willmake sure that my next orchid is a Phalaendopsis or other shadow
tolerant species, but I hate to see the one I have right now suffering.
the leaves are not becaming yellowish. I am carefully controlling the
watering, but I am still in a catch-22 situation: if I leave it (I
named the orchid Henriette) outside, the nights are too cold; if I leave
it inside, there is not enough light and air circulation. So my husband
and I are moving her outside every morning, and back inside before dark.
Of course, it goes exactly against your advice: we are changing her
environment everyday! But I really don't know what to do.

Is there any light I could buy to keep it inside? I have a lamp close to
her (normal light, 100 watts). WOuld it be enough just to leave it on
for four hours per day? or do i need a special light.

Thanks!

Best,

lise

Diana Kulaga wrote:

Hi, Lise,

Aside from the accurate comments on light and air circulation, there is
also
a matter of micro climates. Orchids do not particularly like to be
abruptly
moved from one environment to another, so it is possible that your
Dendrobium sulked for a while. I grow outside, so I am not one to
advise
about supplemental lighting for inside the house, but many here in this
ng
know a lot about that subject. You might want to start a new thread
about
that; I'm sure you'd get plenty of advice.

Also, you asked about orchids that grow in household light.
Phalaenopsis
orchids can be grown in much lower light conditions than Dends, and when
they bloom they last for many months. Very rewarding for indoor
growers!

HTH, and welcome to the group.

Diana