Question
QUESTION: I'm curious to know whether spikes will grow and flower more than once in the same place of the orchid.  I have a couple oncidiums and dendrobiums and each have flowered in the past, but I don't see a spike forming on either one of these though I have new leaves and bulbs.  Thanks in advance

ANSWER: Cheryl, some dendrobium hybrids may re-flower on old canes but I know of no Oncidiums that will reflower on the same flower spike or pseudobulb. You may safely remove old dried flower spikes with either type of orchid. New growths (Oncidium pseudobulbs and dendrobium canes must mature before sending forth a new flower spike.  Also, the mature new growth must be as large or larger than the previous growth to ensure good flowering. If the mature new growth is smaller than the previous growth this may signal the need for repotting and/or the need for higher light levels.  Both types of orchids like to be in a semishaded location outside so they benefit from fresh air, humidity, and higher light levels.  You can leave them out until nighttime temperatures drop into the 40's.

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QUESTION: Thanks for your quick response.  Please define "mature." Both plants have new pseudobulbs but they are smaller (I suspect not enough light), but then again - maybe they aren't mature yet.

Answer
Cheryl, mature oncidiums have a pair of leaves growing from the base of the pseudobulb in additionto those fro the apex of the pseudobulb.  Also, the pseudobulb will be haed and firm.  If the pseudobulb is still soft and not very bulbous, it is likely not yet mature.  With a bit of adjustment to higher light levels in the spring, I'm now growing my oncidiums in full sunlight outside.  In this environment, both the leaves and pseudobulbs are a yellowish green.

Mature dendrobium canes will be covered with a thin papery sheath. Give these plants as much light as they can bear.