Antelope Dendrobium Rot: Soft Canes, Yellow Leaves—Cut & Rest

3-year-old antelope Dendrobium: several soft bulbs, most leaves yellow/brittle. No visible pests. Same fertilizer used on other healthy orchids.

Diagnosis: Rot from Overwatering During Rest

Most common Dendrobium problem. Soft canes = rot, usually from keeping mix too wet—especially during rest period when they should be dry. Cut off affected canes as low as possible; seal wounds with sulfur or copper fungicide.

Follow-Up: Rest Period Timing & Cutting Technique

• Rest cycle: Starts with watering suspension. Plant signals end by new growth. Then resume water/feed, increase light. Mature growth → flowering → reduce water anticipating next rest. Rest lasts several months.
• Cutting rot: Usually starts at cane base → remove entire cane. If higher up, make successive cuts until healthy green tissue.
• Uprooting: Not necessary but safe during rest.