First Orchid, First Post

[kathleen]

Hi, all!
I got my first two orchids today, and know nothing about how to care for them. So my first question is, do you recommend any books or online resources for learning about orchids? I mean the real, real basic stuff like when to water and how to tell when the plant is starting to rest?

My second question is about my dendrobium. It came in a pot wrapped with decorative paper. When I removed the paper, I discovered white roots growing over the rim and down the sides of the pot. A couple roots are also growing out of the drainage holes in the pot. Is this normal? If not, what should I do? FWIW, the plant care tag says the planting medium is volcanic cinders. Also, one of the stalks and a few of the leaves have some black spots on them. Are those a cause for concern?

Thanks for your patience with a really new newbie!

[mayres]

There is a ton of information available to help you learn all about orchids - besides this and similar forums (read the faqs as well as posts) there are lots of web sites and of course the "old fashioned" printed word - books. One readily available good book for newbies is Ortho's book on orchids - can be had at many local stores such as lowes, home depot, etc. You will find that roots growing out of your pots is very normal - don't be concerned. If the black spots on the leaves don't spread I wouldn't worry about them - if they do start to spread cut the leaf just below the spot to prevent further spreading. Enjoy! Mike

[kathleen]

Thanks so much, Mike!

[Sara]

Hi Kathleen, and welcome to Orchid Geeks!
Ditto on what Mike said. The book I own is Orchid Growing for Wimps, and I've really enjoyed reading it.

[jerrymeola]

Lots of good books out there. Start in your local library and then browse a good book store.

For a specific answer about your Den. The paper wrapping is not good for a plant and should be discarded, yet that is what caused the roots outside the pot and down the side. Moisture levels were higher that normal in these areas. If the plant does not rot it grows tremendous. Yours grew excellent. I want to point out that these roots will dry and look dead when they are exposed to air. Do not worry the plant will do fine and adapt to the growing conditions you give it.

Nurseries qrow orchids in pot holders that often have extra moisture under the plant so roots grow out the bottom. I want to point out these roots will stop growing after you remove the extra moisture. It is natural.

[kathleen]

Thanks for the info, folks! So far, I have gotten two books and I plan an excursion to B&N to look for the "Wimps" book. Since I'm a book lover, any excuse to acquire more is fine with me! I am still worried about the Den, but I will put that in new thread. Again, thanks for advice and the welcome.