Question
Hello,  I read your answer to Sheri regarding dendrobiums but am still a little bit confused as to what category my orchid falls into (also a gift).  I am assuming it would be evergreen due to the fact that it is rather tall and is blooming out one tall shoot.  

Also, could you tell me whether it is considered an epiphyte or terrestrial?  And what the best potting techniques would be?  Thank you, Heather

Answer
Hello Heather,

Golly, you mean people read what I've written?  (grin)  

If your dendrobium retains its leaves for well over a year and the bloom stem produced is long, it probably is one of the evergreen variety.  

As for what to pot it in, you can use an orchid mix that is somewhat open while retaining some moisture.  For my dendrobiums, I use fine grade orchid bark mixed with about 25% perlite or sponge rock.  When potting dendrobiums, it is best to put it into the smallest pot that can hold the roots, too large a pot will tend to allow the potting mix to remain wet for too long and can cause the roots to rot.  

Hope this answered your question but if you have more questions, write back and I'll try to answer or clarify the above.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.