Hi, my name is Jill and I'm an addict...

[justjill3]

I'm a newbie, but my love for orchids is an old one. I fell in love with them when I was about 9 years old. I visited Hawaii and stayed in a hotel where they placed a fresh orchid on your pillow everyday, after making the bed. To enter the room and be bowled over by the heavenly scent was amazing. Discovering this HUGE scent came from such an innocent looking creature was even more amazing. I vowed that, if I could I would fill my world with the scent. At that time, I was told that they were hard to grow. Times (and plants) have changed, haven't they. Thank goodness for horticulturists and botanists. I built myself a light stand years ago, and it is holding odds and ends now. I think it's time to fire it up. I do need help.

I am trying to rescue this On. Sharry Baby "Tricolor" (chocolate, yea! ) Krogers had it on sale for 4.99. I'm sure it is one that has been there on my last two visits, just without the blooms. However, I just noticed the little white flecks on the leaves.

1. I'm assuming they are insects? I used a plant insecticide.
2. Also, one bulb is yellow and mottled. Please check out my pic and pass on any suggestions.
3. Also, what do I do about the extinguished spike?

Here are some set-up questions. I have a northern exposure. My house stays b/t 76 and 78 degrees. I have gravel trays, plus the light stand. I use Shultz orchid food.

1. Where should my chids be? Near my windows or on the light stand.
2. How long should my light stand be on? It's in my living room and I do enjoy the dark in the evenings.
3. Is there anyway any of my chids can rebloom at this time?
4. I read that I am supposed to prune the spent cane on the Dtps., but I don't know where I should make my cut.