when to cut phal spike

[orchidbaby]

I have 1 bloom left, and a new leaf is sprouting up from the base, I've watched videos on cutting the spike, but i'm STILL unsure if my orchid is ready for it yet?? how can I tell? How do I know its finished blooming?

[Brutal_Dreamer]

Once the blooms fall off and you no longer see any new buds, it is time to cut the spike off about one inch above where it grows out of the plant. IF you orchid is growing a new leaf, it is time. Let the orchid put its effort into the new leaf and not the old spike.

Having said all of that, there are people who would say cut the spike just above the second or third node from the bottom and your orchid will branch and rebloom on the same spike. Though this is usually true, a young orchid will expend lots of energy into reblooming and will weaken itself in the process by not developing more roots and leaves. Plus, unless the orchid is in very good health, the second blooming on a phal orchid spike will create much smaller blooms than the original. I always recommend cutting spikes off after the blooms are finished and allowing the phal to grow healthy leaves and roots and prepare for the next round of blooms.

Good luck to you on whatever you decide to do.

cheers,
BD

[Raver]

I agree with Bruce, but you could also leave it alone and most of the time it will turn brown and die and then cut it off

[orchidbaby]

thanks! none of my orchid is brown it looks good i wish I knew how to post pics on here, they do not make it simple thats for sure! ugh!

[otis226]

While I do agree with Bruce's advice, and would advise you to strongly consider his recomendations, I usually don't cut a spike off until it turns brown and is dead. I have several Phals that have had green spikes, (granted, cut back to live growth), for over 6 months on them. They are putting out new foliage and roots, and although the spikes aren't doing anything, they are still green. I don't see any reason to cut into live growth on a plant if it isn't diseased or infested by insects. I would add that this pertains to healthy, mature plants, any weak or struggling Phal should be given every chance to channel all it energies into getting stronger and healthier.
Best,
Tony

[Brutal_Dreamer]

thanks! none of my orchid is brown it looks good i wish I knew how to post pics on here, they do not make it simple thats for sure! ugh!

Take a look at the link in my signature on How to Post photos. Also, on the home page click on the HELP LINKS near the top center. It has a list of really helpful links on posting photos and everything else to get you started.

cheers,
BD