Cutting forked orchid spike

[erikm]

Hello all,

First post here. I have multi orchids but I have one that is especially beautiful. I find it to be so awesome because the spikes have forked multiple times.

My first question is a simple one.. is this a phalenopsis?

Second, now that the flowers have fallen off, I'd like some advice on how to cut it best to keep the forked spikes or do I have to cut it and pray it forks again?

Here is a photo where I have made some markings where I think I could possibly cut it. Please let me know if I am completely wrong!

Thanks all

(edit - new user.. can't post URLS.. remove the (dot) and replace with a .) to see my pic )

i.imgur(dot)com/b5ZHr6T.jpg

[RosieC]

Yes it's a phal.

Usually I would either leave the spike and only cut back if it dies or cut it right down at the base.

Phals sometimes re bloom fromthe same spike but not always. Cutting just above a dormant node can sometimes force it to do so but that can also weeken the plant.

I find that generally phals that have branches on a spike will grow them again on a new spike. It appears to be a genetic disposition to branch.

New spikes usually have more flowers than reblooms on old ones, old ones tend to grow new branches to flower on and just have a few on an otherwise straggly spike.

Personally I would wait till all flowers have dropped then cut the spike right at the base and then let the plant grow and gain strength ready to start a new spike. I think there is a good chance it will branch again.

[erikm]

Hey Rosie,

Thanks so much for your quick reply. I took that photo about 2 months ago.. this plants flowers lasted over 5 months! They finally all dropped off last week.

I know exactly what you mean regarding straggly spikes.. I cut my other phal on a dormant node and although it did regrow and bloom, it only had 4 flowers.

I'm going to cut it at the base and let mother nature have a go!

Thanks again

Erik

[RosieC]

Oh and I've just edited your post to include the photo, to make it easier for others. It's a pain that new comers can't post photos, but it seems that as a moderator I can add one to your post

[WhiteRabbit]

[Island Girl]

I agree with what Rosie said and, I just wanted to welcome you to the OB!! Everyone here is very nice, and loves to help, and are happy to answer any questions you have, so don't be afraid to ask! I'm sure that you will love it here, and you *may* even start to buy more and more orchids! It can get quite addicting ~ this orchid-growing hobby of ours...