Does anyone have experience with healing broken short-spiked phals like a bellina? My bellina just came in the mail and had two fat spikes and three flowers. Sadly one of the spikes was clearly broken, but not all the way. I wrapped the injury in some clear tape. Should I expect it to heal? I understand they are somewhat sequential so I would be a bit heartbroken if not lol
If the break was recent and still fresh looking, there is a chance it could heal, but I honestly can't tell you what the odds are. Broken spikes are sadly one of the risks when purchasing online, and it's quite nice you got a spiking plant!
__________________ Camille
Completely orchid obsessed and loving every minute of it....
I am sorry to hear about your broken spike. I would try taping it as there isn't anything to lose by doing this. The good news is that the orchid is mature and if you keep it warm and happy, it might begin another spike. Mine has two spikes, started at least a month apart....
Phal bellina isn't seasonal in the best conditions...if it is warm-hot, it will bloom and start spikes.
Good luck!
Maybe grafting tape could be used. Or a small splint secured with grafting tape. And then maybe a stake for extra support. The rest (outcome) will just depend on nature after that.
I would try the splint as SouthPark suggested. Either a couple of toothpicks or a bamboo skewer.
Another idea would be a pipecleaner, wind it around the break then tape.