Winter Rest Question - Orchid Board

tim abbott · #1 11-10-2009, 06:57 AM

It seems that some types of dendrobiums are the most common plants to require winter rest, but I am guessing there are various types of orchids that rest.

Does a resting period mean the plant is basically dormant for a while although remaining healthy? Is a the recommended culture to stop any fertilizing & reduce the watering schedule until you see new growth? I am guessing if the plant continues to show new growth then it isn't resting. Thanks.

Tim Abbott

Ray · #2 11-10-2009, 08:45 AM

I believe your assessment is pretty good.

tim abbott · #3 11-10-2009, 05:09 PM

Thanks Ray

Tim Abbott

Connie Star · #4 11-10-2009, 08:28 PM

I have a dendrobium nobile, fairly small still, that is putting out new grows like crazy, it seems to me, even tho they are supposed to be winter deciduous. It hasn't gotten especially cold here yet but the light is heading into winter. Should I stop watering altogether?

Donald · #5 11-11-2009, 12:20 PM

My nobile that was brought in just last week has new growth and is budding up so from my point of view you should water lightly and let them just about dry our before watering again.

stefpix · #6 11-11-2009, 12:40 PM

Donald - how big is it? I have a nobile outside my window with a loddigesii and Hamana [kingianum etc hybrid].
would leave outside until temperatures stay in the uppr 30s F. Now actually 50 F.

what made you take it inside?
stefano

Donald · #7 11-11-2009, 12:54 PM

Hi stefpix. I brought it in because here in Worcester, MA
we had a week of temps in the low 30's and frost, so in it came. I really should take some pics of what I have. It's hanging in a 7" pot and is 24" wide 10" high with 10" growth hanging down.

stefpix · #8 11-11-2009, 12:58 PM

Thanks - photos would be great.
My nobile is still small about 6 " canes maybe.
when do you think it may bloom? what size does it have to be?
stefano

Donald · #9 11-11-2009, 01:04 PM

That's a really good question because I've had one of the past 5 years that's about the same size as yours and it won't do a thing but frustrate me. I've kept it out until it snowed and didn't water it for 5 months and all it did was put out a couple of new growths. You know as well as I they almost seem to have a mind of their own.