A question about durability of a Paphiopedilum flower!!

[SuperPaph]

Hi friends, do you think durability of a flower in a Paphiopedilum plant spike could cause the future success on his life? For example, one plant with three months in bloom could delay in develope a new strong grow?

I am thinking to enjoy the flower for a short time, then to cut it, so the plant could keep a lot of energy for the new growth. Do you think will be it a good procedure??

 

[Linus_Cello]

Yes if the plant is small with not many growths, but I think once you get a large multigrowth plant, you may be able to enjoy the flowers longer?

 

[DrLeslieEe]

I agree with Linus.

If plant is strong with at least 3-4 growths and good roots, holding a flower(s) till the end won’t affect it.

On a first bloom, with one growth, it’s risky and definitely no carrying a pod. It almost killed my black petal sukhakuliis. Best to use pollen from this plant on another stronger pod plant.

 

[Ray]

This article, published in the AOS Orchids magazine several months ago, in entitled “Making Plants Bloom”, but addresses the resource accumulation and expenditure factor.