Dendrobium stems

[VickiC]

Hi,
Are these old and leafless stems still of benefit to my den, or may I trim them off? Of course, I don't want to do harm to my new growth, but they are in my way. I have 4 dendrobiums in my greenhouse with leafless stems and I'm constantly tipping other plants over because of them (and my clumsiness)
I would appreciate your advice,
Vicki

[Lorraine]

Hi Vicki,

I would keep any den canes on the plant until they turn brown. The plant uses the energy stored in it and should ...when it's ready send out new growth either from the bottom or a kieki from the cane. The dens I have with the leafless canes will sometimes even send out another bloom spike. I never cut any away till its really dried up. You might want to stake and tie the canes together to keep out of the way...I know they look unattractive but they are dens and look that way a lot.

[cb977]

Keep them till they're really dead...you'll know when that happens

I usually take a long piece of wire tie and loop around one cane, then pull another one over and loop it around that one and so on. It keeps the plant looking neater and it takes up less horizontal wasted space.

[VickiC]

Thank you Lorraine and Susanne!
I retied the stalks a little bit "more compact", I guess you would say.....and I'm gonna try to take it slower when handling my plants. Hopefully with two changes, I won't tip the other plants over quite as often.
Thanks again for your help!
Vicki

[Orchid126]

These bare canes often surprise you and send out buds and blooms. In any case, they contribute to the health of the plant.

[Doc G]

If you are so inclined, and have the patience, you can also propagate the plant with cane cuttings.