Should orchids on windowsill be turned around?

[Jasonmc89]

Pretty much what the title says really.

I currently have 4 orchids (2 Catts and 2 Oncids) hanging in a west facing window. They are all doing really well and everything but I was just wondering if I should turn them around sometimes do that all sides of the plants can receive some good light?

What do you guys suggest?

Cheers.

[Jasonmc89]

Here's a photo of my window.

[PaphMadMan]

It probably doesn't make much difference in the health and productivity of the plant, but you may get more even growth and more attractive plants if they are turned regularly. But once they have a spike it may be better to leave them in the same orientation to the light as the spike grows and the flowers open. It will result in a more attractive display of the flowers.

[estación seca]

Also, on sympodial orchids like yours, don't turn the plants while a new growth is forming. They grow towards the light, and if you turn the plant, it will grow twisted. Turn after the growth is mature and before new growth starts.

[Jasonmc89]

That's the reason I started this topic really - because my Cattleya walkeriana has grown towards the light so much that it's touching the glass now.

[Ray]

Once a plant has begun to grow a flower spike, DO NOT turn it, or it will become a twisted mess, as well.

[Jasonmc89]

Originally Posted by Ray

Once a plant has begun to grow a flower spike, DO NOT turn it, or it will become a twisted mess, as well.

My Oncidium sotanum has a spike that's currently about 8" long so I won't turn that one 👍🏻

[rbarata]

I always turn my orchids when I noticed an unbalanced grow. Once I kept turning my den nobile with the purpose to make a spiral with the new cane. It was not perfect, but it was a spiral.

Like has been said, don't turn it when a flower spike is in progress or it gets twisted.