Hopeless case or worth a try?

[Silje]

Hi

I stopped by a nursery and came across these canes lying in a heap gathered after some weeding, I think.

And I just thought that they must be orchids. Dendrobiums? Or maybe even some kind of cattleya? At least they look pretty similar to a old nobile cane that I got for cane propagation (especially the thickest one).

Now, I'm not sure if these guys are beyond rescue, but I figured I'd give it a try. The nursery woman just think I'm plain crazy, but anyways... I thought since they are still firm and green close to the roots they might not be completely dead yet (although well on the way, and possibly way past the point where I can manage to bring them back to life).

Checking around on Orchid backbulbs etc, I'm now at a loss as to what to do with them. I'm considering letting them stand in rocks, or lying them down on moist river sand. Not so keen on spag n' bag, but if you guys insist...

What do you think? Any suggestions?



http://www.orchidboard.com/community...3/IMG_3510.JPG

http://www.orchidboard.com/community...3/IMG_3509.JPG

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

It doesn't matter what method you try, the goal is high humidity until the keikis sprout.

[King_of_orchid_growing:)]

Honestly, wetting that towel the Dendrobium canes are on will work just as well.

[Junebug]

Those canes look plump and you probably will get a keiki or two. I've tossed phal type dendrobium canes to the side (no moisture except the natural humidity) and forgot about them, and then discovered a healthy little keiki a few months later. Good luck!

[Trini Kjeldz]

uve gotten great advice already...listen to junebug ang KOOG i highly agree

[Bud]

I looked at your weather conditions and you are experiencing dry hot summer and humidity is low (but I dont know what part of Namibia you are located= we need your grow zone)

its best to wrap those canes in damp papertowels and continue to spritz them until theres any growth (roots or keikis or maybe buds)

if your atmosphere had 60% humidity or more you can leave that by the window with bright shaded light until it brings forth signs of life...

but looking at your canes its not hopeless...its plump and green...its alive!

[Silje]

Hi guys.

I've got a home-made 'hot house' to help my orchids survive the dry winter months here in Namibia. The natural humidity is now down to 10% or so maximum, but in my hot house I'm able to keep it around 40% at least, sometimes up to 60%. And more stable temps from around 20-30 degrees Celsius.

I put the canes on moist sand in the hot house and will leave them there for the time being.

*Crossing fingers*