New spikes growing on orchid in bloom

[APreston]

Hi, I’m new to this forum and orchids. I have 3 Phal orchids now. First one was given to me last May and then another given to me in February this year. The third I purchased in May this year. I’m just curious if this is normal, but my phal that I got in February started growing a new spike while it was still in bloom. That new spike has formed new buds on it but it’s also growing another spike. Also my phal I got in may of this year is still in bloom and growing a new spike just under the bloomed flowers that are still on it. ,y oldest phal only grew one new spike after it bloomed so I’m just curious if this is all normal or if these new spikes are a bad sign?

[Roberta]

First, Welcome!
Those new spikes are not only normal, they are wonderful! Those plants are thriving in your care... whatever you are doing, keep on doing it!

[APreston]

Thanks for getting back to me! Good to know that it’s not a sign of stress or anything. I repotted in an Orchid mix with bark and put in clear pots. I fertilize until blooms open. I soak the bark well when needed, usually once every 5-7 days depending on temperature and how the roots look. I’ll continue with this. Thanks again!

[estación seca]

Welcome to the Orchid Board! Sounds like you know how to grow Phals!

[Mountaineer370]

I also want to say welcome to the OB! I agree that what you are experiencing with your Phals is totally normal. It varies from plant to plant, but some will put out multiple spikes at the same time, or maybe a second spike while the first one is still active, others will put out a secondary offshoot from an existing spike somewhere during the blooming period, or maybe even long after the old flowers have fallen off. Others are happy to just put out one nice spike each year.

It's all part of what makes things interesting, and I agree that your plants sound happy and you are providing great care.