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Jeff Layman[_2_] · 20-09-2011, 10:16 AM posted to uk.rec.gardening

On 19/09/2011 22:48, wrote:
Pam wrote:
I've started a new thread so as not to detract from Spider's question.
I have asked before about 2 orchids I have which I cannot get to
reflower, one phalaenopsis and one cymbidium.

I can't advise on the cymbidium, but my phalaenopsis are rarely out of
flower. They live on a north facing but warm and bright window. Very
little draft, very rarely bother feeding, very frequently (about once every
2 weeks) totally soak, sometimes the entire plant underwater (often in
cooled bath water)
The very important thing, IME, for making a good reflower, is to make sure
the old flower stem is /totally/ removed. Takes longer to reflower,
allegedly, but flowers better.
I've never faffed about with this temperature changing business, but it may
be that the nroth facing window naturally does what is required for me
without me having to do anything.

(Good luck)

My experience in similar to yours. The phalaenopsis lives on a
NW-facing bathroom window. Fed maybe a couple of times a year (if I
remember!). Left to stand in water for an hour to top of soil level
once every 4 - 6 months. I don't bother with rainwater - just water
from the hot tap which has been allowed to cool.

I usually only cut the flower spike off when it's finished flowering and
looking tatty. The new flower spike is usually already well-formed by
then with several buds on it.

Only other thing to add is that in the couple of times I've repotted it
(in about 8 years) it has sulked for 6 - 9 months and refused to flower.
But once it has started it is very reliable.

--

Jeff