Firstly, thank you all for the lovely feedback. Cindiras, that is correct. I sever the rhizome just above a bud if it is visible, or if not I just cut half way between the two old growths and hope for the best...it usually works for me hence why I mentioned it. BUT...do not do this to a weak plant or sick for that matter, it will cause more problems initially.Originally Posted by cindiras
I have done this with my Sophronitis and most Catts and find that it helps to fill out the pots or mounts. What it basically does is force the plant into growth, just like in the wild, this mechanism is a survival trick in case the plant was crushed or the new growths eaten by wildlife. My advice is that if any of you wish to do this treatment make sure the plant is firstly healthy, after doing the cuts dust the area with some fungicide or a powdered cinnamon, then keep it fairly dry for a few weeks. This should work.
I advised a customer of ours at work to do this and she rang last week after 3 months and said her Laelia anceps has gone nuts!!! she did 2 cuts on rhizome and now has 6 new growths from the same plant.!! she was sooo happy. She has now moved on to do the same treatment to the Catts.
This advice is of my own opinion only and it works for me, but if you are unsure or doubtful to go ahead and cut the plants up, it is at your discretion. What works for me may not work for some.
And remember, the plants MUST NOT be re-potted after you do this severing, they have to remain in pot and use the entire root mass to feed on. Repotting will definitely stress it and may cause problems, wait till new growths arise.
Hope that helps.
Cheers
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