I'm asssuming this Phal is in spike...

[mmorehead]

I've only been an orchid enthusiast for half a year, so this may seem like a silly question to most of you. My oldest white Phal had a single spike with flowers spanning nearly 4 1/2" wide when I purchased it. It has been thriving since I cut the spike, and now I've noticed nearly six months later, six growths are emerging from the rhizome. I'm assuming they are new spikes. Don't know what else it could be. This would be the first plant in my possession to spike, so I'm really excited about the propsect. Your input is greatly appreciated!

[RosieC]

I'm afraid I don't think they are spikes, but rather new roots.

But that's not bad, roots are good

I don't think I've ever seen so many roots emerging at once. They start with green tips like that and as they get longer turn more silvery.

I would be inclined, once they get a lot longer, to try and gently coax them downwards into the medium, but be careful not to break them.

Spikes are more 'mitten' like on the end. Generally a bit flatter and... well... mitten like. I can't think of another way to describe it.

[RosieC]

I've been trying to find a pic of a new spike for you but can't.

I know that only recently someone updated a thread which had started with a pic of a new spike and was recently updated with a pic of the buds forming but I can't find it I'm afraid.

Hopefully someone here will have a pic to show what they look like.

[mmorehead]

Originally Posted by RosieC

I'm afraid I don't think they are spikes, but rather new roots.

But that's not bad, roots are good

I don't think I've ever seen so many roots emerging at once. They start with green tips like that and as they get longer turn more silvery.

I would be inclined, once they get a lot longer, to try and gently coax them downwards into the medium, but be careful not to break them.

Spikes are more 'mitten' like on the end. Generally a bit flatter and... well... mitten like. I can't think of another way to describe it.

Thank you for your reply, RosieC! I greatly appreciate it. I thought it may have been too soon for a new spike, but was really excited when I saw those roots emerging. I googled a picture of an emerging spike (I was only able to find one), and I see what you mean about them being mitten type.

My next to oldest Phal is experiencing the same vigorous root growth. They are more mature than those on the other Phal, so the appearance is what threw me into thinking it may be in spike. It currently has four new roots. I posted a picture below. Perhaps its because they are the only two I repotted with a Phal mix, coupled with New Zealand Sphagnum? If that's the case, I think I found my new potting mixture! Thanks again for the help!!!

Here's the next to oldest Phal in the family. This one has four new roots emerging.


And here's the link for the only picture I found for future reference:
http://media.photobucket.com/image/p...ke4-6-06-1.jpg

[flhiker]

Man those are some happy Phals. Nice growing. Roots are good!

[mmorehead]

Originally Posted by flhiker

Man those are some happy Phals. Nice growing. Roots are good!

Thank you, flhiker! Your kind comments are much appreciated!

[RosieC]

Wow, the roots on the second one look good to

[mmorehead]

Originally Posted by RosieC

Wow, the roots on the second one look good to

Thank you! I am truly gratetful for your help!

[mmorehead]

I have a Phalaenopsis Brother Lawrence that was in spike when I purchased it, and the spike has grown vigorously and produced three new blooms, which are much more vibrant and colorful than the buds previously grown. It also is experiencing the same root growth as the other two (3 roots), and I can see where another bud may be starting to form. I haven't repotted this one yet, but I thought it interesting enough to note that the medium is also comprised of phal mix and sphag. I wonder if there's something to that? Here's some pitcures:

[lostonthebeach]

You seem to have two really healthy and happy phals there. Great looking roots. Nicely done !!