Keeping them wet, wet, wet!

[orchidsarefun]

Jcec1 I have had similar results to yours over a range of species and hybrids. In fact I have a macroglossum currently in spike, roughly 6-8 weeks earlier than last year - entirely due to early watering. My 1 pileatum which I started early watering also appears to be growing a spike nub. There is an extensive thread on what I did at the time. Unfortunately I can't post photo updates because tapatalk is down......@#$$!@@!
The results are also despite me putting them all outdoors and going on vacation for 2 weeks in June. During that time there was almost daily rain and temps dropping into the 50's. A couple were also sunburnt as the creeper plants covering my patio grew at a slower pace as a result of the variable weather.
I definitely encourage experimentation as, for those of us with a short season, any jump start is invaluable.

---------- Post added at 06:56 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:52 PM ----------

I also have about 8 backbulbs that are outdoors in separate pots. These have tiny growths and I have been watering these too, in addition to them being exposed to the elements. Its obviously early days regarding survival but they currently all look ok. Growth varies between 1/8 inch and 3 inches. Roots all down in pots.

---------- Post added at 07:04 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:56 PM ----------

As an aside - I recommend a general spray to eradicate spidermites, to be used regularly. I don't know why but in my conditions they are a huge problem. They went crazy when I was on vacation and I got back to obviously damaged leaves. And they also are a problem when I bring them indoors too.