[jerrymeola]

I hate to hear advice like this thread because it makes such big generalities about very limited numbers of species, when the great majority of Dendrobium sold are Phal/Dens and do not need any special care. Almost none of the Den hybrids require a severe drying.

I doubt if 1 % of the people worrying about too much water over the winter own one of the species where that is critical. I raise thousands of Dens and water all of them every day for a minimum of a half hour including the winter. Actually they require more water here in Florida in the winter than the summer.

Even Nobile dens that are 'recommended' to have water withheld during the winter, get watered every day. Less than 5 % fail to flower and lack of watering in the winter has much worst results.

On certain species of dens it is impossible to stop keiki development. It is not a sign of a stressed plant. I have had dens with a 1000 flowers and 40-50 keiki at the same time. (only a 6 inch basket) I assure you I was not worried about it dying.

One of the reasons I originally recommended that a Newbie section be started was to try to quell some of the myths.

Orchids are easy to grow. Let me say it again, Orchids are easy to grow.

Relax, enjoy the plants and do not get caught up in exotic care. Severe drying over the winter will put the plant in hibernation and a single watering may be too much the first time it is watered again. It is had to manually give the orchids small amounts of water until they begin to develop again. It is easier to water modestly all year round. The Orchids will adapt.

If anyone (and I still doubt that there are many) that have a special care den and do not know it, then they should look for another supplier of orchids, because any reputable dealer would have indicated the special care before letting the customer buy the plant. Rely on you grower. If you are not confident in his advice look for another dealer. If the grower could not give you good advice how do you possibly think his plants got the required care.