Phal: Is it a spike or a root?

[trai]

Hello Everyone,

I am new to the OB and somewhat new to growing orchids. I bought several distressed Phals at Home Depot, they had been soaking in water for a while and wanted to see if I could nurse them back to health. I have been doing rather well so far.

My question is on the photo I have posted, is it a flower spike or another root coming through? I think it is a spike, because it looks different than the roots, but... I could be wrong!!

Thanks!

[glengary54]

If you are talking about the growth on the right hand side that is growing straight up, that is a new root.

[trai]

OK, thanks for your reply!

Yes I was talking about the one on the right.
I wasn't sure because this root is going straigt up and I had not seen that before.

[RosieC]

Welcome to Orchid Board

Yes it's a root. Sometimes they do decide to go up for some reason. I have one with about 6 roots reaching higher than the leaves, I missed a new spike in amongst them as a result.

The growing tips of roots are either green or redish list yours while the older part of the root is silvery like you see on yours. Also the tip is very rounded.

A spike will be similar colour as the growing tip, but will not turn silvery. It also had a 'mitten' like shape at the tip.

[Paul Mc]

Welcome aboard! You're going to get sooo many friends by being here (orchids) and meet some great people too!

[Otis226]

Warm welcome to the OB. You will find lots of invaluable info here and meet some great, knowledgeable orchid folks to boot! Enjoy and Good Growing.
Tony

[trai]

Thanks Everybody!

I'll be sure to look out for for a spike that looks like a mitten! I have already gotten sooooo much information by reading older posts. With all this great advice I look forward to some great blooms!

Thanks again,

T