To split or not to split?

[Maura]

Hello,

I have an oncidium that I have had now for about 5 years. It is my oldest plant and I love it especially because it has survived with me through 4 different apartments and is still going strong. So here is my question...

The plant has 16 psuedobulbs and lives in a 6in plastic pot. That does not include the 2 new growths forming on 2 opposite sides. It is currently fully in bloom, but only one spike. I actually have never been able to get multiple spikes at the same time, however it has been constantly in bloom for the past year because as soon as one spike is depleted, another is forming.

So I am wondering if I should just keep on letting it do its thing or should I split it? The newer growths are climbing up on the older ones and it sits a good 3 or 4 inches above the pot. The size really is not a problem or anything to me, I actually like having a big well established plant and would almost prefer to leave it as one; I just want to know if this is good for the plant and or if it would do better if split. And If so, how many times should I split it(since I think it could easily make 3 or 4 plants), and if that would do anything to promote multiple spike growth.

I am new to this website, so I am really interested in ANY thoughts or suggestions! Thanks a bunch!

[pavel]

If you have the room for a large plant, I'd say just let it go.

[nen]

I agree! I love specimen plants!

[Brutal_Dreamer]

But if you split it, that is trade material to grow your collection. (You could always keep the larger piece and trade the smaller one for something different to add to your collection.) Either way, it is time to repot it so that you don't get root problems from being root bound. Welcome!

Cheers,
BD

[CATONE]

Why would you want to take a specimen plant which takes years to get and make two smaller plants? Repot it. Most collectors want specimen plants.

[Maura]

Heres a pic if anyone is interested... so how much should I increase the pot size or should I just use new medium?