Is this weird? I'm puzzled - Orchid Board

Cintirella · #1 10-03-2013, 01:53 PM

I decided to post these pix of 2 different phal's growing new spikes at the same time. I'm puzzled: one spike SPLIT in 1 plant, the other plant has what seems to me new branches coming out of a spike? Here's my question: can a spike produce branches? I didn't think that happens? Any suggestion what that is?
( 1st 2 pix is one plant )- the last 3 pix are another plant. Oh ps- when the stem split, I thought was a new Keiki forming but it turned out to be the spike itself. Why did it split and stop growing on that one spot?

tucker85 · #2 10-03-2013, 02:05 PM

Yes, spikes can produce branches. It's in the DNA of your particular orchid. Some grow branching spikes and others don't. As far as one of the branches not growing, that's pretty normal also. Sometimes a branch or an entire flower spike will stop growing and not produce flowers. I assume it's just the plant not having enough energy to continue to grow all the branches, but who knows, it's just nature doing it's thing. Sit back and enjoy.

Island Girl · #3 10-04-2013, 12:55 AM

That means you'll get even more flowers on that spike!

Cintirella · #4 10-04-2013, 09:47 AM

AWESOME ! what a nice surprise

That plant has been super busy since Feb. I wasn't expecting a new stem until Spring since I cut the previous stems all the way down. wow

Island Girl · #5 10-04-2013, 02:47 PM

Good growing! That means it likes the spot it's in

And, yep! They pretty much do what they want, when they want, lol.

Just remember not to move it, sometimes when you move them to a 'better for display' spot, they will blast their buds

& I wouldn't want that to happen to you!

Ooh, and be sure to post pics when the flowers open!