What is a "Terminal Leaf"?

[aquakej]

Hi,

I keep reading about Dendrobiums, and it says to fertilize until the growth has matured (or until you see the "terminal leaf"). I have no idea what a terminal leaf is and what makes it different from the other leaves. Could someone help me out here?

Thanks!
Katie

[ATester]

Hello aquakej,

From what I have read (and seen on my Den)...the terminal leaf is the LAST leaf that grows on top of a particular cane on your Den (you probably guessed that from the name )

Anyway, the terminal leaf doesn't splay off to the side, near perpendicular to the plant, but actually grows up at an angle (on mine anyway, maybe different for others). There is also on mine, if you look down into the crown of the cane, a little nubbly looking thing that looks like an endcap (anyone...is there a particular name for this part of the plant?).

Anyway, that's my take on it...I am sure that someone else will probably give you a better explaination than mine.

Aaron

[Orchidzrule]

What Aaron said is absolutely correct. The last leaf to come out on the top of the cane. Knowing what it is, however, may not enable you to recognize the darned thing! If you're like me, you think "Is it truly the last, or will more be formed?" I think experience is the only way to recognize the difference.


Cheers,


Rob

[LJA]

I think experience is the only way to recognize the difference.

And even then, you're still never completely sure. New growth however comes along at a definite clip, lasts several months, and when the spurt stops, you'll know. I personally have never been able to tell just by looking at the angle of the last leaf formed, but that's just me....