Dendrobium Nobile new growth over winter?

[Gem]

Hi there,
I have a Dendrobium Nobile which has just put up 3 new canes but it’s the beginning of winter.

Is this normal? I was about to put it through a winters rest period to induce flowering but am unsure of what to do now as it seems to be actively growing.

Would love to hear if anybody else has experienced this, if it’s normal for a Dendrobium Nobile type to do this or any other thoughts.

Thanking you,
Gemma

[Roberta]

First, Welcome!

It is an odd time for new growth, but if this is a new plant for you, any chance it might have been grown in the northern hemisphere, so it's a bit confused? With new growths coming, I'd suggest that you keep watering), perhaps a little less often, and no fertilizer. That way, if it really is wanting to grow out of season, it will have the resources to stay healthy. You don't want to try to force a rest period if the plant really isn't ready for that. The only possible downside to that would be possible non-blooming this spring, but first priority is a healthy plant - then it will bloom in the future. Start fertilizing lightly in the late winter (like August). Next year it will probably behave more normally, after a full cycle of seasons.

If you will be growing it outside, so that it gets chilly, then cut back the water some more when the cold weather arrives. If you're growing it in the house, just keep watering gently as long as the plant looks like it is growing.

[Gem]

Thank you Roberta really appreciate the feedback.

I’ve had the orchid for a few years, I picked it up from a backyard plant sale. The mother plant has been there for years so has always been in the Southern Hemisphere. I will do as you suggested and continue to water it and just let her do her thing.