Need advice on a rogue Tuberolabium spike

[OrchidThief79]

I have a Tuberolabium quisumbingii in a basket, and it has grown a nice little spike at the base. The problem is that the spike has grown down into the medium instead of over the edge of the basket. I tried to gently lift it up but it didn't work.

I'm worried that it might not bloom. Anyone have any advice? I suppose this is a good reason to mount it.

[camille1585]

I had the same happen with a mounted Gastrochilus japonicus. The spike decided to grow towards the back, until it jammed itself into the cork mount. BUT thanks to advice from someone here, I managed to coax it into a 180° turn.

What you do is take small piece of styrofoam to prop under the spike. At first you can't raise it very high without risking to break it, but as the spike grows and adjusts to the new position you can put taller pieces under the spike.

[OrchidThief79]

Good idea Camille, thanks!

[camille1585]

Hope you get it sorted out then, Tuberolabium have such cute little blooms! Which species is it?

[nenella]

Originally Posted by camille1585

I had the same happen with a mounted Gastrochilus japonicus. The spike decided to grow towards the back, until it jammed itself into the cork mount. BUT thanks to advice from someone here, I managed to coax it into a 180° turn.

What you do is take small piece of styrofoam to prop under the spike. At first you can't raise it very high without risking to break it, but as the spike grows and adjusts to the new position you can put taller pieces under the spike.

I absolutely agree!!!!! Yay for styrofoam! just gently lift up a bit at a time. I look forward to seeing it in flower.Keep us posted.

[camille1585]

Originally Posted by nenella

I absolutely agree!!!!! Yay for styrofoam! just gently lift up a bit at a time. I look forward to seeing it in flower.Keep us posted.

As you can tell I remembered your advice very well! So devilishly simple, it's a useful little trick to know