|
|
_________________
Today's hybrids
are vigorous,
producing large
flowers or huge
number of
smaller
flowers(known
as multifloral
phalaenopsis)
in a wide range
of colors. Many
orchid
hobbyists build
entire
collections of
this one type
of orchid,
never tiring of
their
diversity.
There has also
been an
unprecedented
boom in
phalaenopsis
breeding in the
past few years,
especially in
Tawian. As a
result new
color
combinations
and more
floriferous
plants are
becoming
available all
the
time.
________________
|
|
Emerging
Flower Spikes
Once
a flower spike emerges it will
take a month or two to mature.
Stake this spike gently as it
grows to ensure that the spike
gets some height before it
produces buds. Continue to give
plants bright light.
Also do not change the orchid
plant's orientation to the
light once the first buds can
be seen as this will cause them
to twist about and spoil the
otherwise prefect symmetrical
display. Buds will eventually
emerge along the spike,
and open in
succession.
Do
not
subject
moth orchids to sudden
temperature changes as
this may cause buds to
drop. Make especially
sure plants do not dry
out, as this may also
cause bud
blast.
This
hybrid has three spikes
blooming at once! While the
reasons for this are often
genetic, the plant still has to
be large and healthy to be able
to do this. Phals with two
spikes are far more
common.
Moth orchids are
especially susceptible to small
amounts of gas often leaking
from heating units etc. in the
home. This can cause the
flowers to wilt and buds to
drop suddenly. Basically if
your plants are setting buds,
do not fuss with them, other
than keeping them well watered.
When 3/4 of the buds have
opened, you can move the plants
elsewhere to enjoy the display.
Flowers can last for up to
three months. Once the
flowering display is finished,
cut off the spike about an inch
from the base of the plant(see
our guide on what to do
once your
phalaenopsis has
flowered
).
|
