Gastrochilus japonicus (Project 12 - Spring 2011)

[Jennyfleur]

Like you say, you'd imagine they'd grow downwards (considering their structure). Obviously, with mine in a pot it's growing upwards. However, I'm wondering whether to put a couple of toothpicks in to support it away from the bark - otherwise, the flowers which are developing will be in contact with the bark and will inevitably get wet during watering (or so I fear!) Any thoughts on that one everyone before I try and do it?

[camille1585]

Mine is mounted (growing upwards), but the blooms got wet on a regular basis since I would soak the plant. I think you should leave the plant in the pot as it is, but watch the developing spikes. If they're growing too much towards the bark you can 'train' then to go in a different direction using styrofoam pieces to gentle guide them. I did that with the spikes on mine because they were growing towards the mount. I managed to get them completely turned around.

[Jennyfleur]

Thanks Camille - I'll leave alone (guess I'm in a fiddling mood at the moment! But, I'll behave )

[Lady Tottington]

Update...

Hi friends! I have not been able to log on to the OB for at least a week! It's been so hard! I keep getting the update emails of all the new posts but can't see photos! But, for some reason today I could login and view the OB!!! Awesome!

Anyway, my cute little Gastrochilis has three little flower spikes growing! I will take and upload a photo this weekend!

Hugs to all. If I'm not online, I'm not ignoring you, comcast is just blocking me from viewing the site. Wonky!

[Zoi2]

I finally got mine but I probably should have waited for warmer weather. The little guy is pretty rough looking but I think its going to make it now. I mounted it the other day and so far so good. There is a new growth and spike, I am hoping they both survive.
Joann

[Amanda L]

Watering my Gastro today I noticed a nubbin in between the lower leaves. I can't tell what it is yet. Will keep you guys posted as it develops.

[Amanda L]

Wow Zoi, your Gastro is hugemongous!! I will keep my fingers crossed the spike and the growth survives!

[Zoi2]

I just assumed it was normal size, the leaf span is about 5". How big is yours?
Joann

[Amanda L]

From leaf tip to leaf tip it's 6 1/2 inches. One of the leaves is 4 inches. The leaves are growing in an upward manner.

[Jennyfleur]

Morning everyone Well, my runt of the pack has just started to open its flowers I'll try and snap some photos before I go to work, but I won't be able to upload them until I'm back... by which time, they should've opened some more