I had a few orchids that I bought with that Ice recommendation - and, I did the full water route - then came to the realization that the media that the roots are packed in - are so tightly packed that with the full watering routine - was causing the roots to stay wet to long. A few weeks ago, I repotted my orchids in bark - and, was horrified at how many of the roots were damaged from poor drainage. I repotted 2 of these plants that were still in bloom, and if you are careful not to bang the flowers around, you shouldn't lose them. (at least I didn't lose mine). My orchids are REALLY happy now that they're in the right type of pot, the roots can be watered and drained fully, and the roots can breathe. I can't emphasize enough, please don't do the ice trick thinking that your plant will stay healthy forever - it's only a temporary ploy - like watering a plant in desert conditions and only giving it a sip instead of a glass... orchids need humidity to thrive. Go get yourself some bark, not fine moss - or other clinging stuff - but chunks - and, soak the chunks well, then, take your plant - pull it out of that damn plastic cup ((stuffed with styrophome (YES! that was in mine!) and tightly packed moss, and what looked like sawdust.)) and give your orchid a better home. If you can afford to get an orchid pot - they're AWESOME, by the way - helps a lot to allow in extra air to circulate around the roots. ONce you get your plant in a proper "rooting' home - you can water in your sink - let the warm water run over the bark for 5 minutes or more. - depending on time of year, do it once or twice a week. And, rest of the time? well, I like to spritz the leaves with a spray bottle every other morning and talk to them. Keeps them happy. :)

Are you really sure that the object is growing on that particular segment of the flower. Perhaps it is just stuck there with the glue used to fasten the pollen on to the insect /moth or whatever (Could be a guy with a toothpick) takes the pollen from one flower to another flower.

Thanks Mara. Sadly they're only hardy to zone 9 or 10 so I have to bring them indoors in late Fall. I do have some hardy ground orchids that are hardy to zone 5. They act more like a spring bulb than and orchid.

One more of my Vandas opened yesterday! For some reason the bottom of the photo is cut off But if you cluck on it you can see the whole thing.