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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
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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).
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