New spike and bud on my paph - when to support it?

[alannanoelle]

My paph that I've had for about a year now has started growing a spike and a bud! I am SO excited! The spike is now about 1.5"-2" tall, and it's starting to lean with the weight of the bud. At what point should I add a support stick to keep it growing straight upwards? I don't want to clip it and then inhibit it's growth, but I don't want it flopping over, either! This is my first experience - any advice would be appreciated!

Thanks!

[trdyl]

Some spikes are only a few inches tall other are well over a foot. Can you give more information on your paph such as hybrid/species name or parents. This would be helpful.

[alannanoelle]

It is a Maudiae type paph orchid, with a green and white flower.

This is what it is supposed to look like when it blooms.
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Hn2g2UYYJf...c34c_1_sbl.JPG

This is what it looked like several months ago. It now has a third fan, as well as the new bud.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_Hn2g2UYYJfo/Sc...0/IMG_8648.JPG

I have new pictures on my camera at home, but still haven't uploaded them. Hopefully this information can help you answer my question for now!

Thanks!

[trdyl]

In that case I woul start staking it when it is at least 6 inches tall. But loosly tie it with a twist tie. It will continue to elongate. You just what to give it support not give it a strangle hold.

[alannanoelle]

Great, thank you!

[trdyl]

I'm glad I could help.

[tuvoc]

It could just be leaning toward the light source. I don't know your growing conditions, but I'm a window grower, and mine will grow toward the window, so I turn them about a quarter turn a week, then stake them when they get six inches or so tall, like Ted suggested.

Kim

[alannanoelle]

Thanks, Kim! I actually have a skylight, but it is slightly off in one direction, which happens to be the way the stem is leaning. I will try turning it. Thanks again!