On 18 Oct 2004 07:38:14 -0700, (Joan)
wrote:
Before I continue, I want to share with you what I have learned so
far. I had done some further google-research about my orchid and
determined that it is a reed-stem 'Epidendrum secundum'.

The following quotes are taken from the September 1998 issue of
'Orchids' (the magazine of the American Orchid Society) written by
Andy Phillips and Cynthia Hill:

"'Epidendrum secundum' (Andes of South America) has an upright,
clumping growth habit with roots emerging from the base of the stems,
at or below soil level. It readily forms keikis on old flower spikes.
The leafy stems range from 1 to 30 inches, producing a ball of 30 to
40 brilliantly colored 1-inch flowers on 18 inch terminal spikes."

"('Epidendrums') are easily propagated, yielding many plants from one
stem,"
"To keep your reed-stem plant tidy, remove old flower spikes and stems
down to the base by snapping them clean with your fingers or cutting
with sterile clippers. This makes room for strong, new basal growths,
while discouraging keikis from forming that produce shorter, smaller
spikes and turn into messy, tangled plants if left untended. Plants
grown in low light may need to be staked, while those growing in full
sun are usually self-supporting."

Since I'm going to receive a replacement, I might as well take chances
with the one I have. I want to cut off that tall stem with a broken
spike to its base. My question is this, where do I exactly cut the
stem? Just how far above the root?

Joan

Mine was blooming at about 5 feet tall when I purchased it. It
now blooms at a height over 6 feet and shades the south end of
the walk in the gh. Guess I will have to get in and 'clean' it
up next year. I have just let it go. I have not noticed any
keikies on it. But I have not looked for them. It has roots
here and there up to about 8" above the pot.
SuE
http://orchids.legolas.org/gallery/albums.php