Question
How do I know my cane orchid is dormant--is it after it completes blooming
and all blooms have fallen off?  At that time should I let it dry out, and if so how
often should it be watered during that time?  Do I tell it is ready to be watered
again when I see new growth?

Answer
Hello Mary,

It all depends!  

Depending upon whether it is an evergreen or deciduous dendrobium will determine whether you should allow it to dry out.  If the flower stems grew from near the top of the cane, you have an evergreen dendrobium that should be kept barely moist until new growth or roots begin.  Flowers growing directly from the sides of the cane would mean you have a deciduous type that should be kept on the dry side over winter until new growth begins.  

Hope this has helped.

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.