What does "drooping shoulders" mean in orchids? A detailed explanation of orchid shoulder positions
The standard for drooping shoulders in lotus-petal orchids differs from that in plum-petal orchids. For lotus-petal orchids, if the tips of the two lateral petals are in a straight line, it is not considered drooping shoulders, whereas for plum-petal orchids, only when the midlines of the two lateral petals are in a straight line is it not considered drooping shoulders! Drooping shoulders are caused by insufficient stem elongation, and cool, humid conditions can solve the problem. Heavy watering affects the length of the petals and the speed of blooming. In some cases, it is due to repotting...
Drooping shoulders are caused by insufficient stem elongation, and cool, humid conditions can solve the problem. Heavy watering affects the length of the petals and the speed of blooming.
In some cases, it is due to insufficient vigor caused by repotting. During the blooming period, do not move the position or orientation of the pot, as this is beneficial for bud arrangement, stem turning, and the direction of blooming. In a cool and humid environment, with a dry but not parched growing medium and potting soil,using top lighting will produce better flower quality.
Drooping shoulders of the lateral petals in orchids affect the overall appearance of the bloom. This is certainly related to the variety, but also to the condition of the plant and management during the blooming period.
Weak plants with insufficient vigor and heavy watering can lead to drooping shoulders.
The direction of light also affects the direction in which the flower opens, which in turn affects the position of the lateral petals. With side lighting, the flower stem leans and the flower bows its head.
During blooming, obstruction by leaves can hinder the lateral petals from spreading properly, often resulting in slanted or drooping shoulders.
Temperature, humidity, and excessive sun exposure affect stem elongation and the speed of blooming. Shadier, more humid conditions with stable, slightly lower temperatures tend to produce better blooms.
Among the three outer petals of an orchid, the middle one is called the dorsal sepal, also known as the main petal, and the one on each side is called a lateral sepal, also known as a lateral petal. The so-called "shoulder" specifically refers to the posture at which the lateral petals are borne. The first type: the two lateral petals angle slightly upward, that is, the angle of the two lateral petals is greater than 180 degrees, called "flying shoulders," and is considered a superior form. The second type: the two lateral petals are horizontal, that is, the two lateral petals are parallel, called "straight shoulders" or "level shoulders," and is considered a top-grade form. The third type: the two lateral petals droop slightly, that is, the angle of the two lateral petals is less than 180 degrees, called "drooping shoulders," and this form is inferior. The fourth type: the two lateral petals droop greatly, forming a triangle with the main petal, called "great drooping shoulders," "tripod horse," or "splayed stance," and flowers of this form are considered inferior. The lower angle formed by the main veins of the two lateral sepals (shoulder sepals, lateral petals) of an orchid flower being less than 180 degrees, showing a slight downward droop to the two lateral sepals nearly merging into one, is collectively called "drooping shoulders." Generally, a lower angle of the two lateral sepals less than 180° to 160° is called "slight drooping shoulders"; 160° to 120° is "small drooping shoulders"; and less than 120° is great drooping shoulders, which is an inferior form.