Stake inflorescences early.
As soon as the spike has started to elongate, give it some support with a wire or
bamboo stake. For orchids like Phalaenopsis, you can either keep the spike
straight up, or allow it to arch at the first or second bud. If you let the spike
grow out at an angle, when it is staked for a show the flowers will be at an
awkward angle, and not show well. If you have been turning the plant to receive
equal amounts of light, do not turn once the buds appear. Choose the best side,
and let the flowers open to that side for best display.
Paphiopedilums with two inflorescences will invariably open in opposite directions (Murphy's Orchid Law
#8). The buds can be gently coaxed to face the same way if looked to early. Some
orchids like Phalaenopsis pulchra and Odontoglossum pendula have pendant
inflorescences, and these look very unnatural when staked.
--Alex Challis