Oncidiums Blooming

[orchidaddict789]

One of the best things about oncs--or orchids, in general--is seeing them flower! Here's some basic info involving oncidium flowers in general.
I'm referring to the most common oncidium hybrids.

Where do spikes come from? Where can I check to see if I have a spike?

You know on a pseudobulb (the round, swollen stem, technically) there some leaves on the right, some leaves directly opposite on the left, and usually one or two leaves at the apex of the bulb. On the inside of the left/right leaves, where they attach to the pseudobulb, is where spikes come from. If you happen to look at the "gap" between the base of the leaf and the bulb, and you see a pointy, thin, green object, chances are likely it's a spike.

How can you tell if I have a spike and not a new growth?

Oncidium spikes and growths often get people confused. The rule of thumb is, if the "green thing" comes from between the leaf and bulb, as described above, it's most likely a spike. New growths usually don't grow out from between the leaves, but rather grow from the very base of the pseudobulb, in plain sight, not tucked under leaves. In time, spikes will be thin and long; growths will fork at the tip, soon becoming young leaves.

How long does it take for a spike to bloom?
This depends on the growing conditions and the exact hybrid you have. Longer spikes take longer, of course. 3 feet spikes took me 3 months, 1 foot spikes took 2 months. This may not be true for all, but expect 1-3 months.

How long do flowers last?
Depends. Usually 2 weeks at the least and 1-2 months at the most.

What do I do after the flowers fall off?
Cut off the spikes. Unlike phals, onc spikes usually don't grow side branches.

How often do they bloom?
Healthy oncs bloom at least once a year. Each time a new growth matures into a pseudobulb, you can expect a new spike. Don't be discouraged if you don't see one, sometimes oncs do that!

Any more questions feel free to ask!