Where you live now and where you lived before seem to be part of the equation. But you did not say where that is. How about stuff like frequency of watering, fertilizing, solar exposure, high and low temps, what is the potting material, is it new or old and more...whatever is meaningful. You have no camera? Pictures would be nice.

All you can do is research the climate where this orchid grows in nature (North West Vietnam) and try and copy the climate there as best you can considering the growing conditions that you can provide.

No, no pics.

Well yes, I've done that but there isn't that much literature about the natural habitat of this orchid. I'm asking specifically if people who have this orchid have experienced this. I've mimicked it's habitat based on what I've read but I'd also like it not to die :)

It is very difficult to provide advice without all the information. Is it your intentions to challenge the advice givers? Or do you want help with your orchid.

You need to tell us where you live, (Country, State! What climate zone are you in? This can determine whether your plant would lose its leaves or not.

Can't help you without the info.

Jane

I have three of three of these. Two flower yearly, but one likes to skip a year here and there. I water freely during late spring through fall. Then let it dry between watering. Provide bright light all year. It stays with my mini cattleyas.

I have had them drop their leaves. However this is generally related to an error on my part - allowing it to overly dry out.

It is difficult to weigh in on your plant's leaf drop without more cultural information. Orchids drop there leaves for many, many reasons.

Thank you Darlene for sharing your culture for this orchid, it's very helpful.

Based on what you say, I think the humidity and temperature drop had something to do with it. I will move it to a warmer, sunnier spot and see what happens.

Is it your intentions to challenge the advice givers? - No, I do not dare challenge the great wizards of (h)Ouzz!! :)

I do let them experience a drop into the low 50s during colder months. That's when I keep them on the drier side. As for humidity I grow outside whenever possible. They have a South facing window spot for the cold months. Say November to May. I am in Ohio. So cold months are numerous.

Interesting, Darlene. Based on the care for other dendrobiums I suspected they need a drop but also less water; I was confused by the culture notes that said to keep them moist. This makes sense, but I think my orchid needs to be moved to a sunnier spot regardless. Thanks, again!

Not knowing where you came from or where you went is relevant. So is your habits of care. Without quality information my best guess is poor culture.

When you ask if it's sick or deciduous but do not provide enough background, it is nearly impossible to give sound advice as we don't have a full picture (both literal and figurative). A doctor needs as much background and (preferably) presentation of symptoms in person (or at least visually) to diagnose and issue. It is very much the same with a plant when asking for help from orchid-obsessed strangers who are volunteering their time and expertise to help you. At least provide us with additional information so we can provide accurate assistance, otherwise advice may actually do more harm than good.

Good luck with your den!