Newbie Questions

[ams957]

Hi! New to the forum, 1 year with orchids, mostly phals. I have new flower spikes on two of my three phals and one dendrobium that looks like 4 dead sticks growing out of a block of wood. I have been watering the poor dead thing lightly and am really curious about whether it will rebound. How can I tell? Is there anything I should do?

Also, I just purchased a Brassia 'Bill Switzer" online and expect its arrival Thursday. I cannot find too much info on the growing requirements of this type and could use any suggestions soon (before I have a chance to hurt it!)

I would appreciate any advice on these plants, thanks in advance...Arleen

[Diane]

Welcome, Arleen. I won't give you any advice, because Me + Dend = Instant Death. And I only have one Brassia. But there are lots of people on this forum with lots of knowledge, so I am sure someone will be able to help you.

[mde]

Most Dendrobiums like to rest a bit and dry out at the roots in the winter, but if you see active growth then you can water more frequently even in the winter. Generally, they also like a cooler period in the winter and can handle lows into the 50's. I would definitely not keep the block of coconut husk it is in very wet at all unless there is a new/active growth. This is a sure recipe for root rot. Those chunks of coconut hold a lot of water and do not dry out very fast.

I'm not sure about Brassia 'Bill Switzer' but I know Brassia Rex Sakata and Brassia Eternal Wind Sato both like to dry out more at the roots in the winter as well especially if exposed to cooler temperatures, unless in active growth. With my Sakata I withhold water other than misting a bit until I see the new growth, which just started about a month ago, and now I'm watering 1-2x/week to support the growth.

Hope this helps a bit?

Matt

[ams957]

Thanks, Diane!

[ams957]

Thanks, Matt! There is no mention of Brassia care in any of my literature so I had no idea if any special treatment was required. Your reply helps a lot...Thanks. Arleen