I don't know how well it applies to dendrobiums, but I usually try to adjust
the size of the pot to the size of the root ball, rather than immediately
trimming the roots to fit a pot that looks appropriate for the plant.

Root trimming might still be required - and often is a bit of a "kick start"
to get the roots to branch - bit if the as-is roots are just about right for
a 6" pot, I might do minimal trimming to fit a 5", even if the plant might
seem to be more appropriate for a 4"-er.

--

Ray Barkalow - First Rays Orchids - www.firstrays.com
Plants, Supplies, Artwork, Books and Lots of Free Info!


"Bryan" wrote in message
news:nC14f.203600$tl2.174551@pd7tw3no...
Thanks Diana:

This is the way the Dendrobum came from the ebay seller. I was rather
shocked when I opened the package and saw all the roots.

I did not realize its ok to trim the roots back, how much should I take
off. Should I trim back by 50%.



"Diana Kulaga" wrote in message
...
Wow, look at those roots!

One option is not to repot at all, unless the medium has broken down.
Dends like to be pot bound.

If you must repot, remember that Dends don't like to have their roots
disturbed, but I can't see any choice in this case.

I would trim the roots way back and pot this in your medium of choice.
Keep the pot as small as you can.

HTH

Diana