Quote:
Originally Posted by Shadeflower
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The stakes in these photos were applied later in the process... and still look forced. Maybe protection for shipping, but still forced.
For Paphs like the Maudiae type with long straight spikes, they first go through a process of "unfurling" - eventually they sort of "reach for the sky" (assuming someone doesn't strangle them). The bud will nod downward until almost the last minute. They do that so that the bud develops with the correct orientation of pouch relative to the spike and the plant. (It should face outward with pouch down, not looking at the ceiling) At the end of the process a weak spike can be staked, but in general they have a much better chance of growing straight and strong (and so not needing staking) if they are left to grow naturally.
SouthPark is quite correct - observe it so that you see what is natural. Don't change the orientation - that also can cause the spike to go in odd directions. Just leave it alone and observe it. Save your adjustments until you know what the plant is doing, then you will know what minor tweaks might be in order,
RoseSD 
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