Spike growth advice - Orchid Board

CLWheeler · #1 02-28-2014, 07:56 PM

My walmart rescue Phal is thriving at my house as are my other 3 Phals! I'm doing something right

My question is one rescue is producing growth on its main spike and on the arm with blooms!
I was planning on cutting the spike and re-potting when the current blooms are gone. Its in its original pot that I cut side slots on. It has a yellowing lower leaf and a drying old spike.
Should I still cut the spike and re-pot? What would you Orchid enthusiasts do? Hope the pictures help

Thanks!

CLWheeler · #2 02-28-2014, 07:58 PM

A few more pics, couldn't upload them all together

james mickelso · #3 02-28-2014, 09:54 PM

Usually I recommend cutting off the old spike to let the plant regain some vigor but this plant is in good media and is doing well. Be careful not to drown it. The yellowing leaf is normally a sign the plant is growing correctly and is pulling energy from that old leaf. You could let that new flower shoot grow but this flower count won't be as good as the original was. Your choice. Let this plant regain it's vigor and you will have a great flowering in about 4-6 months. With that much stored energy those flowers should last 3-5 months giving you a delicious display.

CLWheeler · #4 03-01-2014, 01:15 AM

Thanks James! I've read that letting a Phal re-bloom again so soon can possibly kill it, so I was worried.
If I cut the spike and re-pot are you saying that in 4-6 months it should spike and flower again? Or that leaving it should give me a delicious display? Sorry so many questions

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Thanks again

james mickelso · #5 03-01-2014, 11:07 AM

letting it bloom off this old spike will give less flowers. letting it recouperate will produce much better.

Vanda lover · #6 03-01-2014, 11:18 AM

i agree with James. Phals are easy to get back into bloom. They just need cooler temperatures, such as a cool window sill.

CLWheeler · #7 03-01-2014, 01:31 PM

Ok, Thanks!
My Phals are all on a window sill and loving it! Lots of new growth and happy roots!
My first attempt at re-potting is doing so well! Roots are popping out like crazy and growth on its old spike. It's much bigger then all the rest. The last time it had blooms was 11/2012. The two I got from Walmart are smaller and need new medium and old roots cut away. My husband got me a Phal for Valentine's Day that has the biggest spike and lovely big blooms(my avatar pic) It's packed in moss and I would to re-pot in bark medium when blooms are gone.
I appreciate all the advice I get here! Thank you so much!

Vanda lover · #8 03-01-2014, 01:49 PM

The phal in your avatar is a gorgeous colour