What to do with spikes after bloom

[cabbo]

I know with Phals there are various opinions on when and where or even if to cut the old spikes. What about other genera? Specifically Tolumnia, Catt's, and Dendro's? Do I cut the spikes after bloom or leave them alone until they turn brown and die? Thanks,Chris

[beanluc]

neh heh heh, I thought this would be a thread about "what to do with spikes after cutting them off"

Weave them into baskets? Use them as sticks to toast marshmallows?

Anyway, Dendrobiums and Cattleyas won't re-bloom from a spike. Tolumnias might. This is probably what you want to know?

I personally always wait to cut spikes off until they're brown and hard anyway, even on non-re-bloomers.

[Kath]

I'v only ever managed with phals. The last great success was a phal that flowered on the same spikes for 2 years, till I moved house. The spikes have recently died totally, and I cut them back totally this morning only!

[Kath]

Hey! I think I'll keep the old dry spikes, and weave them into baskets - always useful for the groceries!

[cabbo]

Originally Posted by beanluc

neh heh heh, I thought this would be a thread about "what to do with spikes after cutting them off"

Weave them into baskets? Use them as sticks to toast marshmallows?

Anyway, Dendrobiums and Cattleyas won't re-bloom from a spike. Tolumnias might. This is probably what you want to know?

I personally always wait to cut spikes off until they're brown and hard anyway, even on non-re-bloomers.

Thats hysterical, I think my kids marshmallows would end up in the fire though. Thanks for answering my question

[WhiteRabbit]

tolus and psychopsis can rebloom off an old spike
as well as some phals
I know there are some others not coming to mind right now
I do the same as beanluc - I don't cut til they are dead and gone on any plant lol