ascocentrum seed pods

[nutgirl]

My Ascocentrum curvifolium has several seed pods and I have a couple of questions:

How long before they mature, how do I tell when they are?

Do the pods have any effect on the growth of the plant while they are on it?


These pods are a first for me so I'm starting on a new learning curve.

Maureen

[John D.]

According to Orchid Wiz green pod harvest is about 130 days, I would expect dry seed 20+ days later.
The length wise ridges and grooves on the pod will get more pronounced as the pod matures and you will most likely see some color change (yellowing) at the end of the pod. They tend to split suddenly with little warning so to catch the seed you may want to enclose the pod in a coffee filter before you think it's ready.
Growing a pod does take some energy from the plant. If it has a lot you could thin them.
Are you going to try flasking?

[nutgirl]

Thank you so much, John.

I've never tried flasking but this might be the time to give it a whirl.

If I do, I'll be back on OB with lots of questions.

Maureen

[Mr. Tech]

If there are some seedpods on the loose, I'd like to trade them for something with you. What about swapping them for some vanilla cuttings?

[jaxorchidman]

How about a pod for a pod. I have Dar. Charm 'Blue Star' with about 5 pods on it. We can do a swap??? Let me know and I'll pm you the details. Thanks!!