Masdevallia spike growth

[Paul Mc]

I was under the impression that most grew their spikes straight up as opposed to along the top of the medium. Based upon the growth I am seeing, I am assuming that this impression was wrong.

So do are you supposed to set the spikes upward so you can view the flowers better then?

[WhiteRabbit]

sorry - I don't grow these, but I'm sure someone else will be able to help - gl!

[billc]

Some grow out and spill over the edge of the pot. What are you growing?

Bill

[Paul Mc]

I'm growing two hybrids, Beth Cox and Ziegler's Love. It's the Beth Cox that is creeping around the top of the sphag and spilling over the side. It's funny, because all the pictures I've seen of this particular one have the flowers somewhat straight out of the top of the plant. I have now put a spike down and a very loose clamp to help guide it up so the flower will not be lost in all of the orchid foliage of my windowsill, lol... I want to actually see the bloom since this will be my first!!

[billc]

Someone posted not too long ago some masdys and was using wood skewers as spike props. You could try that.

Bill

[silken]

OrchidWiz didn't have photos of Beth Cox, but both it's parents seem to have upright flowers. It should be a stunner, so hopefully you can get it propped up!