Staking a Phalaenopsis Spike

[Nancy]

I'm sure this has been mentioned before, so if someone could point me to the thread I'd be greatful. Anyway, I have my first phal in spike. I need to stake it pretty soon. How do I go about it. I'm actually afraid to touch it but it doesn't seem to want to grow up. Any guidance will be appreciated.

[mayres]

You can get the spike to grow any direction you like by turning it - the spike will grow towards the light - assuming you have it somewhat near a window. My office phals I get to curl over the plant by turning the plant accordingly in the window sill. Most of the phals I have at home have had short enough spikes that I have not staked them at all - I actually prefer this more natural look. Unless you are transporting them somewhere they will usually adequately support themselves.

[janet_a]

very. carefully.

i'm with mike; i get 'em to phototrope in the opposite direction from where i ultimately want them to be, then i turn them 180 degrees so they go the other way. i use regular garden stakes for the big tall ones and tie tapes or butterfly clips depending on how mature the spike is.

[Nancy]

So far, it's grown in one direction and it's about three inches long. When would be agood point to turn it in the other direction?

[mayres]

Let it grow at least another 3-6 inches and then turn as janet suggests. Enjoy!

[Nancy]

I am so excited! If I can actually get one flower I'll be happy. I want to use a bloom I've cultivated as my avatar and I've been waiting a long time for this. Thank you so much for all your help.