How do you prevent your orchids from spiking

[Miller]

How do you prevent your orchids from spiking? I have some that I would like to grow out more with foliage. Mostly Oncidium types. After there initial spikes/blooms earlier in the year (some with multiple spikes) died back, I thought let me start fert again and get some more leaves, well instead of leaves I have more spikes. Is there a way to encourage an orchid not to bloom?

Thanks!
Miller

[Halloamey]

Yes indeed it is possible, just make sure that the temperature does not fall below 30 oC day and 26-27 oC at night. They should also get long days (14-16 h) day and 10 to 8 hour nights. Fertilize with a high nitrogen fertilizer like 30:10:10 and finally after doing this if so spikes do show, nip them in the bud. This will ensure the vegetative phase. The shortening days and the day-night temperature variations are what triggers flower production in most orchids.

[Miller]

Thanks for the response. Even with the AC on all day and night, the house does not get cold (Houston, Texas triple digit heat for weeks). The ones that are blooming again are Mtssa Shelob Tolkien AM/AOS, Brdsm Guilden Urchine Ontario and Oncidium Heaven Scent Redolence. I don't know that I can bring myself the nip the spikes, I just wish they had put that energy into more PB.

Thanks again.

[Gin]

Some seem to be keyed into a cycle . I don't think I would stop it from spiking if you do there is the chance it will just sit there and not make new growth . It will when it is ready . Happy growing ! Gin

[Dorsetman]

Just pinch the spike out ; I often do it with small plants where I think the flowers will take too much out of them ; better have a bigger bulb and a stronger plant for next year, than a poor flower spike and a weak plant. A trick which works with lots of plants - e.g. its the only way to get the blue Tibetan poppies to do well in Southern England - just don't let them flower in the first year, or better two - then you have a big clump which is stroing enough to stand flowering etc...patience !

[Miller]

Well I don't have the heart or nerve to pinch then off. The plants are "strong" I just like a little more greenery to go along with the flowers. I noticed one of them actually has two spikes now. I guess I shouldn't be complaining! lol Thanks for the feedback.