Need Help - Orchid Board

linda · #1 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 09:50 AM

I was at a local nursery and while walking around the orchid table I noticed a pile of dead rubbish on the floor well along with that rubbish I noticed this little guy.

I asked what they were going to do and the guy said it's dead stuff we're throwing it away. So I asked if I could have it and he said yes but why would I want a dead orchid when I could have a live one and I just want this one I said and when I got home I realized I forgot to ask what kind he is and the care for it. So if anyone could help me I would appreciate it . There seems to be roots growing up the stem should I cut them of or what . If anyone has any care ideal I need them. heres some more pics

matucana · #2 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 12:18 PM

Hi Linda,

it is difficult to tell without a flower, but maybe it is a Trichoglottis.

cb977 · #3 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 12:26 PM

I agree...Trichoglottis comes to mind but it may also be another in the vanda family.

Either way, lots of misting is necessary.

Nice "garbage"!!!

Ross · #4 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 01:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by linda

There seems to be roots growing up the stem should I cut them of or what .

Linda, don't cut any roots off that are white. I agree with the others that it will require some careful care. Steady moisture, etc. As to genus, trichoglotis is a possible but so are lots of others. The little nick in the tips of the leaves is a giveaway, but I couldn't find one that exactly matched the stem details I see in the pics. Wait till it blooms, then we'll have a better shot at it.

quiltergal · #5 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 01:45 PM

If it's sending up a new growth from the bottom it's far from dead! Good rescue.

linda · #6 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 02:42 PM

Why are the roots growing up the vine? And would it be beneficial to put over a pot of water? I also have it in spag moss should I change that (to what) or leave it like it is? Thanks

linda · #7 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 02:44 PM

Also should the misting be done with just water or a orchid food water .

cb977 · #8 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 03:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by linda

Why are the roots growing up the vine? And would it be beneficial to put over a pot of water? I also have it in spag moss should I change that (to what) or leave it like it is? Thanks

Hi Linda

Anything that has free-flowing roots or is mounted needs to be misted at least once daily. If you live in a hot location, it may need more. By "misting", I mean drench those roots till they turn a nice deep green.
Don't cut any of those roots, either! With some care, this can grow to be a beautiful 'chid

My Trich also has roots coming out of the center...I've attached pictures. As for the sphag, I don't use it unless it's something mounted (and I have my 2 Phal equestris in it). If you're going to keep it in a basket, some people add large chunks of charcoal to keep it a little more moist in the area...I personally like this one to be mounted. Tree fern works nicely for this.

Ross · #9 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 04:51 PM

Great shots Susanne. I definetly agree that this orchid need daily water. And don't cut roots. They grow that way in nature to help attach them to trees (typically) and that signifies an area that gets plenty of moisture (like the jungles or Hawaii or something.)

linda · #10 (**permalink**) 06-14-2007, 06:31 PM

Thank you, If there anything else You guys might think that I need to know just let me know .I put it over a pot of water and I mist it . But the roots don't turn green. I mist it 2 times a day ( I live in Florida) I hve it in side next to a glass door , Morning sun only Bright light the rest of the day. By the way I have another question . I have cuttings off of a couple of my friends orchids How long do'es it take for them to get roots on them ? there babies off of theres but they didn't have roots on them . Any help on that would be great. Thanks