Hi Kelli - I have only been growing these for 3 years but I think I know some of the answers to your questions.

On the back bulbs. There are a limited number of new growths they can create. It is not an indefinite number. Pseudobulb have a certain number of "growing eyes" at their base. These eyes have the potential to become new growths when activated. Usually only one or two eyes will create new growth and the others are dormant. They will break dormancy if something drastic happens and the orchid needs help for survival. Something like dividing it will often do the trick.

You are correct on the time to divide. You want to do this during dormancy. Then you repot both divisions but still with hold water. You can make divisions out of single bulbs but a 2-3 bulb minimum will make for a stronger plant. When I divide these, I only keep enough roots to anchor the division in the pot. I divide any catasetinae over 6 pbulbs.

Hope this helps!

Darlene, you are a rock star!

Thank you!

Glad I could help!