Should I cut off this Vanda Pachara Delight spike?

[OrchidAddict]

I ordered a Vanda Pachara Delight recently, and I was overjoyed to locate one in spike. When it arrived, however, one of the flowers had bloomed (very badly) in the box, and the bud below it had completely shriveled. Now I don't know what to do about the spike. Should I cut it off completely? Should I leave it alone? And, if I do decide to cut it, would it do me any good to cut it above a node, like with a phal? I don't know if vandas are capable of producing secondary spikes.

Here's some pics of the sad bloom (still a really pretty color, though!) and an overall view of what's going on with the plant.



I do SOOOO love that color!! Here's another view. Notice that the spike is still green, not yellow, so I feel like the plant might still have plans for it... but the bud below the flower is completely blasted, so I don't know what use it could possibly have...



So what should I do? Do I leave it alone? Does anyone see a good spot to cut the spike to induce a secondary offshoot? Should I just wait until the flower falls off and chop the spike down to the base? This is so confusing!

[orchidsal]

Jenn; My own best advice would be to leave the spike along until it drys up completely, but then I do what I can to avoid in any chance of infection. I myself have never heard of a Vanda side spiking when cut, but you might want to hear from others more expert than I on this subject. Sorry those flowers were not in good shape. That's disappointing. This can be one big, beautiful, multi-bloomer if it's happy! The plant itself and what I can see of the roots look fine. AL

[stateless]

I've never had a vanda grow a secondary spike, would be nice though, I always thought you get one chance at a bloom from each leaf node section with vandas. I agree with Al the plant and roots look good, but I feel your pain about the buds.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

I'd remove the dying bloom ( quick tug). Then let the spike dry up and snip it off about an inch from the plant.

cheers,
BD

[Halloamey]

Ditto !

I'd remove the dying bloom ( quick tug). Then let the spike dry up and snip it off about an inch from the plant.

cheers,
BD

[cdayinflorida]

I'm glad to see that you all let the spike dry up, too. I don't cut mine, either and risk the invitation of an open wound.

[fooyukweng]

I would cut off the spike. Don't worry this vanda is very free flowering and you would not need to wait long for a new flower spike.....

[BValdes]

One of my favorites! I agree with letting the spike dry up and wouldn't be surprise that you'll get another one in a few weeks.