Onc. Mendenhall Monarch: is it tired?

[Dragonflydanser]

I have one of these that has been doing well for the past year or so. There are currently 3 bulbs (with what looks like a fourth starting) and 3 spikes.

Each spike is 16plus inches tall and produces a complete flower every 5cm or so, the new bud pushing out the old bloom.

Things have been going well, and we love this character, but the last bud that the tallest spike (almost 24 inches) pushed out failed to open. It whithered and fell off. Another bud is peeking out, but it too looks weakened.

The other 2 spikes are still producing nicely, thank you, but I wonder what is happening with this one. Its bulb looks fine. There is no rust or any other deformity and, as I say, the other 2 are doing well.

Any ideas? Thanks in advance.
Jeff

[John D.]

I have seen this happen if the bud gets too warm (close to a light) or if low humidity. In both cases subsequent blooms were ok.

[Dragonflydanser]

The newest bud is beginning to perk up, and perhaps I was a bit charry with the water... and winter months are approaching. So much to pay attention to.