Oncidium/Brassia/Miltoniopsis Many Spikes?

[Ross]

Diane, I have several and here is my experience. Each plant can get up to two pseudobulbs from last years' growths. I usually only get one. though. Each pseudobulb can theoretically get two spikes (one on each side of the matured pseudobulb. Mine have been spiking from immature pseudobulbs and these tend to support only one spike each. Since I get at least 2 pseudobulbs per plant each year I can see two spikes each. Some of the intergenerics such as Bllra, can go wild with pseudobulbs and spikes. I have a Peggy Ruth Carpenter that has bloomed multiple spikes 4 times in last 18 months, always from partially matured pseudobulbs. Is a plant like this worth it? To me yes. The blossom column is tall and there are many blossoms, some with very pleasant fragrance. Hope this helps.

[princessbydezine]

I have a sherry baby that I bought with just one spike on it... then found another 3 when i got it home but I have broken 2 off so I was left with just the one that one has just lost all it's flowers and I counted 8 new pb's today comming up... next year I should get quite a show.

[karren]

Not all oncidiums have the same flower producing abilities.

Here is one that has 5 flower spikes , over 150 flowers open and 100 more buds; intergeneric Vuyl. Aloha Sparks 'Ruby Eyes'

We all have our preferences, I like a profusion of flowers. But if you want an Oncidium with more than one spike per bulb then I would try a Twinkle (Orchid of the Week Library: Oncidium Twinkle 'White/Light Pink' ). These routinely produce 2/3 spikes per pb. They are relatively easy to grow and come in white, pink and yellow.

[Phantasm]

In the end, it all comes down to your ability to grow a plant well over time. It takes a few years to get these plants to the point where they have many growths and bloom profusely. Learn to grow the plants to their potential and they will take care of the rest!