Den and Zyg

[tizzycat]

Just got back from the garden centre with two must have bargains. I saw them sitting on a shelf, lonely and sad, yesterday when I called to pick up a Ruby wedding gift and went back to see if they were still there ............. so I now have a Zygopetalum "Lay Bird" and a Dendrobium that has lost it's name tag both purchased for the princely sum of £5.99. The orchids I already have are all Phal's so I saw this as a good opportunity to Branch out whilst offering a little TLC, but the question is what would be TLC? They're not in bad condition, both green with new shoots growing and both with the old spikes present. both totally dry! Any advice would be greatly appreciated as I'm new to anything but Phal's. Greatful thanks in advance. Chris

[fred]

I have enclosed some links for you that are in olther sections.


http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/G...ht.html#dendro

http://www.mtbeenakorchids.com.au/CulturalNotes.htm

Watering Questions & Answers

[arleneg]

If you could post a pic of your Dendrobium, we can help identify it and give you some tips on growing one, since there are two types of Dendrobiums -- nobile Dendrobium and Dendrobium phalaenopsis. Some are semi-decidious.

One thing I can tell you is Dens like medium to bright light (2000-4000 foot candles). That's a start.

[tizzycat]

Hi Arlene, I really appreciate your interest, this is the Den in question but unfortunately, although the spike is still present, there are no flowers.

[jerrymeola]

The den did not appear in your posting.

Care of either is mostly general orchid care. The Zygo does not like high temperatures, but that should not be a problem for you like it is for me in SW Florida. It will due better in temperatures under 80 during the summer.

Most common dens grow like weeds so care is not critical. Species dens can be difficult but you would have a hard time finding them on a discount shelf. Also Nobiles do not often show up in a mix of common dens. Nobiles only have one critical issue and that is no fertilizer after August. Actually since most orchids slow down growing in the winter anyway, you should reduce fertilizer and water during none growing periods.

[tizzycat]

Thanks Jerry - I used the Den picture as my Avatar as this seemed to be the quickest way. Thanks for the good advice. Chris