I've Inherited A Big Mess

[quiltergal]

My son was laid off at the end of summer as were boatloads of other Oregonians. Being 1 of 4 states with the highest unemployment in the nation he has naturally had a difficult time finding a new job. Living on the brink of financial disaster has taken it's toll on him. I think he's becoming depressed, and has lost interest in things that he used to be quite passionate about.....including orchids.

We were at his house visiting this evening and he asked me if I wanted to rescue some orchids. Of course I said yes. I went upstairs to his grow area and was greeted by the most pitiful collection of plants I have ever seen. He couldn't remember the last time they had been watered. Parts of some are quite literally crispy. Some were beyond hope or too big for my space, but I took what I could.

So I have 3 Catts, a Brassavola of some sort, Paph. Pinocchio, and Brassia Eternal Wind. Some look pretty dead, but I can see new roots and a few have new growths so there may be hope for some of them. I stuck them in the utility sink in the laundry room and gave them a good long soak. I may repeat that process in a day or so. Several need repotting, not the ideal time, but what else can I do? I think I can bring the majority of them back.

I hope when he gets back on his feet again that his interest in orchids will be revived. Until then I'll take care of his plants and someday if he wants them back he can have them.

[stonedragonfarms]

Terri:
My thoughts go out to your son. Hopefully he will again see that there is joy to be found in even the darkest places.
Adam

[Tindomul]

I don't think there is much else you can do. Although I would probably not be afraid to repot. On the other hand, seeing as how they are dieing due to underwatering, there is probably nothing wrong with the potting media.
I'm glad you decided to take his orchids for him. I know how easy it is to loose interest in your passions when life goes sour. Glad your there for him.

[Sandy4453]

Terri, depression can cripple a person and I'm so sorry to read that your son is struggling. Sometimes in the winds of change, people find their true direction. I hope that he is able to pull himself out of this funk and discovers some luck along the way in his search. As a parent, I know how helpless you might feel for him. I hope things turn around for him soon.

[MuscleGirl'sHobby]

I'm so sorry to hear about the tough spot your son is in He's sure not the only one out there in a bad spot right now. I know how it is when you get down though. You lose all passions, no matter how important it once was to you. I've been though bad spells myself, and it's tough because you stop doing what you love, but what you need most is to be doing what you love.

[shakkai]

Oh, Terri, how painful it must be for you to see your son going through this. A lot of us have felt like he is feeling now, and the only consolation is that it doesn't last forever. But getting through it is not easy - for either your son, or for all those who love him.

I hope he sees some light at the end of the tunnel soon! And I am sure that, when he does, he will be grateful that his orchids were cared for.

For the time being, take care of the plants, be there for him when he needs you, and take care of yourself, too, sweetie!!

You'll all be in my thoughts.

[cb977]

Terri, you and your son are in our thoughts. Hopefully, he'll get past this dark place very soon and see that things will work out. The orchids are unimportant in the grand scheme of things...the health of your son and your family come first.

If there is anything I can do, let me know

[Gin]

Depression is the pits literally . He is lucky to have someone that cares, so many times there is no one , hang in there, things will get better ..
I would re pot if there are dead roots they will become water logged and rot, causing the good ones to also rot. . Gin

[Claudia]

Terri, I hope your son finds the strength to fight depression, and to do the best he can in the situation he is right now to go forward.

I know how hard can be if depression takes over.

[priz_m]

Oh Terri, I hope everything works out for your son, kindest regards!