To cut or not to cut cane

[Wayne Nickerson]

Hi, A freind just gave me a Den Samphan Brown. It has good new growth on two of its canes. The oldest cane has been cut back to about 7 ins. tall. Should I remove this cane or will new green reappear on it? Thanks Wayne.

[bkim]

There are many different types of Dens. I am not familiar with that species. In general, do not cut canes that have dropped their leaves and are still green. They still provide energy for the plant and depending on your species may continue to produce spikes.

I have a Den right now with a leafless cane that has had 3 spikes in the past and currently has 2 spikes in development.

[quiltergal]

I agree with bkim, don't cut the cane. Your plant will use it as nutrient storage. I've even had Dens from the Formosae group bloom on really old leafless canes.