Trimming off old blooms

[gemma]

I have a new phal and I've had all the new buds die (I believe it's called a bud blast?) The 2 newer blooms have died and fallen off and now 1 of the older blooms is going limp.

I've read somewhere on OB ... I think ... that advised trimming the spike to allow more of the plants energy to go towards the healthier part of the plant. Should I do that? Should I trim the plant where the buds/blooms have fallen off as well as the bloom that is currently wilting? I just want all the energy and growth of the plant to be where it counts.

Thanks in advance for any help and advice! And if you have details, PLEASE share!

[kindrag23]

I would wait maybe a week and see if it will continue growing at the tip to grow more blooms that way.

Or you can cut it next to the next node on the spike and it may spike or branch off of that.

Also I would suggest reading the first 12 pages or so of the phal abuse ends here. It is a great tool for someone just getting into orchids. Worked for me!

good luck, and once you post 5 times you can start posting pictures!!!

OH AND

[james mickelso]

If the buds have fallen off (bud blast) there is a reason. I would cut the spike all the way to the base of it and let the orchid rest. Don't over water it and give it good air flow and moderate light.

[kindrag23]

Originally Posted by james mickelso

If the buds have fallen off (bud blast) there is a reason. I would cut the spike all the way to the base of it and let the orchid rest. Don't over water it and give it good air flow and moderate light.

Oops did not catch the bud blast part. Good point