Sticking Flowers

Question

What would cause the petals and sepals on one of my phalaenopsis to stick together and not open fully? —Mildred Dzikas

Answer

Assuming that this is a plant that has flowered normally before, there are several possible causes. Atmospheric dryness can prevent normal opening, and this is certainly a possibility in your area during cold winter months. It can be a passing anomalous blooming, or it can be genetic. It could also be that the plant is exuding sap and the sticky material is causing the flower parts to stick. —Ned Nash