Quote Originally Posted by PyroRob
When all buds are gone, is that the time to cut the spike off and let the plant rest?

Also, Second question:

I bought a third orchid that was planted in bark. I have noticed that it certainly has different watering requirements than those in moss! Where as I would water the moss-planted orchids once/week, the bark planted requires twice a week. Anyway, to the question: I noticed that the tips of the leaves appear to have been bent to the point of breaking the fibrous tissue, and seem to just flop down. I am guessing this is common with store-bought orchids... Do I trim these off? Is ther eany special treatment to the end of the leaf?

Also, I notice that there is a mosaic pattern that appears to be dehydrated, on a larger section of the leaf.

Since I have been keeping a very close watch on this plant, the patterns in the leaf shown in http://www.spudmonkey.org/gallery/album10/img_0109 have become less noticible.

Is there a way to clean the obnoxious water spots off these leaves? I have used distilled water and gently scrubbed, and this has lightened the stains somewhat, but not completely.Thanks all, you have been a great help!

--->Rob
After the blooms have finished you have 2 choices, cut the bloom stalk off right near the plant and let the plant rest, or cut the bloom stalk between the points of the first blossom and the first node below the old blossom. It looks like a very vigorous plant, and would very probably branch, but if you cut the stalk off completely you will get a much better show next blooming.

The leaf tips seem okay to me. I suggest leaving them alone, as trimming them can open them up to infections.

The mosiac pattern looks like sunburn to me. Keep an eye on it, but I don't think you have anything to worry about.

Cleaning the leaves - I have heard lots of different suggestions (milk, sun oil, etc.) I just try to wipe mine down with water on a paper towel once a month.