Where do you cut old phal flower stems?

[JanS]

Hi!
A long time ago I read that you can cut an old phal flower spike half way down and induce another flowering stem to come out of the old one much quicker than if you cut the old one off completely and wait for the plant to shoot out a new one from the base. This year I did that to a number of my phals, but I must say the results (aesthetically) are not that great. I am attaching an example of one: a new flower spike did indeed shoot out of the old one, but the plant decided to send out a brand new spike anyway. The result is two gnarly stems with subdivisions and only 2 or 3 flowers on each.

I am interested to know your practice on this topic - is there a trick where to cut the old stem or do you think it's just not worth it?

(BTW - this is a scented phal, somewhat subtle but very pleasant scent)

[Zoi2]

I always cut my flower spikes off about an inch from the base when the flowers start to wilt.
In my opinion,to rebloom from the same spike is silly as the flowers are just not that great and I would rather the plant focus on the next season.
Joann

[james mickelso]

I always felt that it is better to cut the old flower spike off and let the plant recover it's vitality than to force another secondary flower spike from the old one. Flowering takes a lot of energy. I have flowered some secondary flower spikes and they were just as gorgeous as the first but I think the plant suffered from it. Once the last few flowers start to wilt, just cut it an inch or so from the base and give it a rest.

[JanS]

Thanks both of you - I agree the secondary spike trick isn't worth it. Today, I chopped off the old flower spikes from 4 of my phals that I half-cut before and that were starting secondary spikes. I think I heard them sigh with relief...

[Ray]

AND... depending upon the species, or species in a plant's background, some you NEVER cut the spike, and they continue to grow and bloom for years.

Generally, if they are short, zig-zaggy spikes, leave 'em alone.

[Becky15349]

I agree with zoi , better to let the plant put its energy into new leaf growth and regear for the next spike.

[Orquiadicto]

I agree with all. just cut the spike off as close to the base as you can and let the plant concentrate on growing leaves and roots for the next flowering season.

[Oscarman]

I am with the group. Cutting them down to the side of the plant.

There are many phals in my collection which I know will form additional buds on the same stem, so those I leave alone till they die naturally or I want the plant to concentrate on growth.

[Mira-Claude]

I think you should just leave it be.
Some orchids are sequential bloomers and simply needs time to keep flowering. These plants, even when left to rest, rarely do an impressive show. So I prefer enjoying it as long as I can.
Others will simply put out branching and just keep flowering from there.
Cutting can damage the plant and allow infection to spread. Mostly if you don't have sterilized tools.
Of course if you are scared for the plant by all mean do cut both spikes off and let it rest!
Just my two cents.