Paphiopedilum Michael Koopowitz spike watch

[Jeff214]

I'm not sure if I should stake beyond the first bud. I'd have to bend it pretty awkwardly to get it to the stake.




I see those petals unwinding!

[Roberta]

Originally Posted by Jeff214

I'm not sure if I should stake beyond the first bud. I'd have to bend it pretty awkwardly to get it to the stake.

Don't rush to stake further. The flowers will orient themselves correctly as they open, and the spike will be strong. If you stake higher, the flowers are likely to end up facing the ceiling rather than facing forward the way you want.

[Jeff214]

Originally Posted by Roberta

Don't rush to stake further. The flowers will orient themselves correctly as they open, and the spike will be strong. If you stake higher, the flowers are likely to end up facing the ceiling rather than facing forward the way you want.

Thanks, I'll leave it be. I saw photos of meticulously staked multifloral paphs but I'm unsure how they do that based on the orientation of the spike and bud. They seem to be positioned to protrude horizontally. As you mentioned, it would likely make the buds face upwards. wires...?