Rescues - Orchid Board

Sara · #1 10-24-2007, 09:02 PM

I went to my local greenhouse today, and I got a dendrobium and a cattleya. Both are not in great shape, but have potential.
I unpotted the dendrobium, and it had no viable roots left, and the bottom of the last cane was black and getting soft. But, it did have a keiki on it, so I separated the keiki from momma, and potted it up. It is Den. 'Carmela'.
The cattleya did not have very many viable roots. It has new growths, and from those new growths are new and healthy roots. I trimmed what I could of the dead roots, and gave it fresh medium. It is a Pot. Hawaiian Charisma 'Hawaii'.
I'll try and post some pics of them tommorow. I would appreciate any advice on how to nurse these guys back to health.

Sara · #2 10-24-2007, 11:46 PM

Anyone have any advice for me at all?

cb977 · #3 10-25-2007, 12:15 AM

Sara, I would've answered but you've already heard my advice

Lagoon · #4 10-25-2007, 08:18 AM

Sara,

I think you did all you can do for now. I'm just waiting on those photo's.

kiki-do · #5 10-25-2007, 09:56 AM

Hi Sara,
I too think you are doing all you can to salvage your new orchids. Unfortunately, many greenhouse workers do not know how to care for orchids or such plants as african violets. Sounds like that dendrobium has a fighting chance now that you've given it some TLC. I find that given half a chance, orchids are great about bouncing back when they are cared for like you're doing. Keep your fingers crossed. Kiki-do

Sara · #6 10-25-2007, 10:28 AM

Here are some pics:

Den. Keiki

This all that's left of the den. cane.

Lagoon · #7 10-25-2007, 11:35 AM

They look much better then I thought they would.
I think you did great on the clean up.
The lil den looks like it does have some roots.
Your catt is in growth now - they both should do fine for you

I would keep them under med light for the next few days, after that these are high light orchids. I'd move them into a very bright area so they can recieve a full 12 hrs of light per day.

cb977 · #8 10-25-2007, 11:56 AM

You did a great job, Sara!

Sara · #9 10-25-2007, 05:36 PM

Thanks guys!
Yes, the little keiki has some roots (about 1"-2"). Amazing how the little keiki was ready to be on it's own when the momma cane was failing.

Ross · #10 10-25-2007, 05:42 PM

Just to chime in... with short roots, that doesn't mean anything will be a problem, but in some cases moisture can be lower than they expect. If the leaves start to wilt or shrivel, I'd get this guy into a baggy real quick. Also, keep from strong light till there is real eveidence it's growing well - like new growth, new roots, etc. Then slowly move to higher light. Just a thought.