Success!!

[cherlon]

I'm so excited! My oncid. "jungle Monarch" has 2 new psuedobulbs, and lots of new roots. I have a question regarding a phal that is in bloom. Is it normal for it to "sweat" along the flower stalk? There is a dewy substance and I used to see the same thing on my dends while they were in flower. Does this mean my phals are happy? They look so healthy and lively. All of my orchids have new growth and are perking up w/ the spring sunshine. I want to try the phrags next. Are they tempermental, or are they easy to grow. All of the books I've read all tell me something different. I look forward to hearing from my fellow orchidphiles. Thanks, Cheryl

[gerneveyn]

That's normal for Phals to secrete that stuff. I've also have seen it on new cym psueudobulbs.

[justatypn]

Yes it is normal, the substance is sticky and called 'honeydew'. If this is what it is your in good shape , orchids are happy but I would make sure that there are no pest around if you spot pest 1/2 alcohol and 1/2 water and a teeny bit of dish soap will do the trick, don't forget a 2nd round to take care of the new baby pest

[smartie2000]

Yup its from the pressure of the sap going of the spike You have a happy spike going on

[cherlon]

Thank you for your input. I have checked and all of my plants are pest free. I'll attach photos when I figure out how to reduce them to the specs on this site.
Cheryl

[Shadow]

I usually see this substance on the new growths. They are midges' favorite lunch places , unfortunately...

[cherlon]

I just received two new baby orchids in the mail today. I hope they do as well as the rest of my plants. The honeydew on my Phal is spreading over the entire stalk. I've looked at the plant under a magnifying glass and there are no signs of insects. Can I put my orchids outside in a sheltered area after the temps climb to the 70's & 80's? I have Phals, Dends,and one Oncid. Any tips would be appreciated. Thank you, Cheryl

[smartie2000]

Some orchids will definitely enjoy being outside especially your oncidium and Dend. Cattleyas can go outside too

Maybe a spray with need so the leaves aren't so tasty to bugs...

[Shadow]

I wouldn't suggest putting out the orchids covered in sweet substance.... It will be such a nice present for all garden pests. If you want to bring them outside try to wash the substance off.

[cherlon]

Good advice. I'll give it a try. I have other plants to put out and it's almost time to harden them off. Cheryl