- Now we should be enjoying the success of a years good culture, plenty of flowers, or at very
least a forest of spikes. Remember, the developing spikes, and even those with open flowers, can be damaged for
even broken accidentally during normal activity around the plant. You do not want to destroy your cultural success
at this stage, so staking is important. ;Bamboo or heavy wire stakes are suitable, but watch for sharp points at
the ends of the stakes. The bending over of wire supports may prevent eye damage when you are closely looking at
the plants. Plastic caps are also available which also emphasise th eposition of stakes, and provide eye protection.
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- Do not tie the spikes too tightly to the support as this can constrict further development, just
tie enough to give support. Place the stake in from the edge of the container. The main roots often encircle the
outer edge of the pot, and can be damaged if the stake is inserted there. When stakeing, try and allow natural
spike form to the individual plant to develop as this will generally produce the best display .
- For the best display, ensure spike management rules
are carefully followed. This is fully discussed on the relevant page.
- The plant expends considerable energy in producing the spikes and flowers, and best results will only
be obtained if the plants are in good condition and healthy. If there is any doubt concerning the vitality
of a plant, the spike should be removed early. It is generally recommended that spikes should be removed some two
to three weeks after the last flower on the spike opens. As it takes two to three weeks or so for all the flowers
to open, the flowers can be enjoyed on the plant for a reasonable period, before serving further time in a floral
arrangement. For a strong plant, spikes can be left longer, as energy is expended to produce the spike and there
is likely to be limited drain on the plant with the open flowers just sitting there. If they are pollinated, however,
then the drain on the plant will increase considerably.
- Pests and diseases should not be a great problem, although slugs and snails can cause damage in
some cases. Those growing in a heated glasshouse may still experience red spider, although in cool situations this
should not prove be a problem. Any insects are best controlled by a suitable powdered insecticide such as 'rose
dust', which will be suitable for amateur use.
- Plants should be protected from the worst weather . If you do not have a glasshouse grow in a porch
or provide some overhead cover. Try and eliminate cold gales, although on milder days plenty of fresh air will
do no harm. In any enclosed space, try and provide plenty of air movement, if necessary utilising fans, as this
will eliminate most flower, and many plant fungal and bacterial problems.
- Watering must be completed carefully. In cold conditions let the plants dry out somewhat as this
will prevent root death. ;The dryness now will not do the plant any real harm as most species in their natural
habitat would receive dry conditions at this season anyway. Any watering must be adjusted to plant activity, pot
size, condition of the potting mix, etc. Additional care at this time of the year ensures the roots are maintained
in good condition, which is essential if early, strong growth is to be achieved in the spring. Do not allow water
to fall on to the flowers, as this can cause unsightly spotting of some. With warm days and cool nights, condensation
can also form on the flowers, which, under cool conditions can cause spotting. This problem can be minimized if
good air movement is maintained at all times, but especially at night.. Leaving a small fan running in a glasshouse
can be most beneficial.
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