Cymbidium question

[Chris in Hamilton]

I have limited space so when bringing my plants inside as fall arrives this year and considering the number of plants I now own its probably going to be a two day affair figuring out where to put them. Not including the time spent with AutoCAD. This Cymbidium was photographed three years ago and is about 4' across. I now have 5 of them and although three are mini's it will be a challenge fitting them all in. My question is, although it might be heartless, would it be safe for the two big plants, if I were to cut their leaves off to maybe 1' in length?

[raybark]

Yes, it is damaging. The leaves are the "solar collectors" of the plant, and it is the energy they create that keeps the plant living. The fertilizer you apply is for structural use and to help produce that fuel, not to drive the growth.

Instead, consider creating something along the line of a tomato cage to support the leaves upward.

[Chris in Hamilton]

Dang! Thanks Ray. I was hoping they wouldn't really need them through the winter months. ( Smiley of me on my belly on the floor throwing a little girl tantrum)

[Kauaiguy]

LOL Chris! Since you like to build things, how bout' getting a small hoop, hang it on the ceiling and putting the leaves through it? Would take up less space .. sorta like a girls pony tail ... LoL