Question
QUESTION: Again, I thanks for the advice, but I'm getting the impression that you are implying that letting them grow naturally is better than forcing a result. I would rather follow natural law, as it seems like it's healthier for the plans in the longrun.

I think the same principle applies to human health.

However I do have another question. When are the natural spike growing and blooming months of the phal?

-Theo

ANSWER: Hi Theo,

Yes, it is always best to allow nature to govern when an orchid will bloom.  But, with that said, there are quite a few commercial growers who do play with Mother Nature and that is why you can find phalaenopsis orchids in bloom for sale year round.  Because of this, there are a lot of people who believe that orchids should be in bloom year round.  

Most phalaenopsis spike in late fall into winter and bloom late winter through spring.  From the time a spike first appears to when it is in full bloom can be from 2 months to 4 months and longer depending upon the species within its heritage.  

Occasionally a spike will appear and grow then a month or so later another spike will appear.  Due to this, the phal. potentially can be in bloom for 4 to 6 months!  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Jim,

The two phals I have are finally starting to spike!! There are at least two sprouting on each plant!! I know they're spikes because they look like buds(with a pointed tip) rather than just a round lump (that would develop into a root).

My question:
Is it still good to fertilize the phals with that "terra organic worm poop" orchid fertilizing spray OR now that there are spikes it's better to not give it fertilizer?

-Theo

ANSWER: Hi Theo,

I hope they are SPIKES!!!!  At the beginning, it can be a little difficult to tell if they are spikes or new roots growing, but after a while it becomes pretty evident which it is.  Spikes will remain green as it grows longer while roots will only have a small green tip followed by the grey to greyish-white root.  

You can continue to feed them, just be mindful that as days shorten and light levels go down that they will not need to be fed quite as often.  

Keep up the good work!  Congratulations!!!  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Jim,

These are definitely spikes because like you said, they are green, have that pointy/leafy tip, growing vertically and also growing faster than expected. However, the bud-like growth on the bigger plant aren't so obviously roots or spikes. I'm just going to assume they are roots so that I don't give my hopes up.

Thanks for your help again. I'll make sure to fertilize them less.

-Theo

Answer
Hi Theo,

At least a few of them are spikes!!!  Now, I hope the other growth is a spike also but you are wise to not get your hopes up too high in believing they are.  Now, if they do turn out to be spikes, you can jump for joy!  (grin)  

Along with fertilizing less, it would be a good idea to reduce the frequency of watering.  As temperatures and light levels go down there is not as much a need for watering as often.  Just keep an eye on how wet or dry the potting media is and water when it becomes barely moist.  

Have fun and good luck with the last growth!  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.