northwest winter care for dendrobiums?

[melaniewicklund]

So I probably have made a grave mistake, but I cut the main cane down to the root base…. A few months ago the leaves turned yellow and I just left them. Unfortunately my mother in law came along and pulled all the yellow leaves off with only the lonely cane remaining. I was not happy with her but kept on nursing the plant with weekly watering and bright light. Eventually new shoots grew off the main cane that looked like mini canes. Now its pretty much winter in the northwest with minimal sunlight through out the day and cooler temps. I keep the plant indoors and in as much possible sunlight and reduced watering to maybe once every other week and yet to fertilize. The plant turned limpy and a light green yellow all over. I decided that the cane is not revivable so I cute it all the way to the base today but feel I might of just ended its chance at ever coming back. What should I do? Should I keep watering as normal and keep in sunlight or maybe let dry out for the winter and store in a closet to bring out during spring and summer? Im clueless.

[Sandy4453]

Originally Posted by melaniewicklund

So I probably have made a grave mistake, but I cut the main cane down to the root base….
I decided that the cane is not revivable so I cute it all the way to the base today but feel I might of just ended its chance at ever coming back. What should I do? (

You should stay away from scissors and knives for starters!!!

Depending on what kind of Dend. and assuming it's hard caned, JUST LEAVE IT ALONE. I suspect, it's already suffered a major setback from the cutting and growing should slow down this time of year for these. By late Spring, they'll start growing more roots and canes....if there's anything left on your plant and you don't cut it off. Watering every other week is fine. Keep out of drafts and away from heaters and don't put it in the closet. Leave it, no more cutting and you may find yourself with a great plant by this time, next year.

Good luck!

[nutgirl]

Hi Melanie,

Welcome!

Hang in there with your dendrobium. Do what Sandy says and things will work out. Orchids are awfully resilient.

Maureen

[melaniewicklund]

LOL thanks for the advise! next time i'll let things be.