Why did spike thin out?

[elbie]

I was so excited that a phal I had for a couple of years was finally putting out a new spike. It was growing really rapidly and had several buds at the end. While watering today I noticed that the middle of the spike was extremely thin while the spike on either side looked hale and hearty. The area is so thin that the spike in falling over at that point. Should I cut back? If so, to what point? I am really so disappointed.
Elbie

[wintergirl]

As I understand your post: If it has buds on it, maybe try to support it with stakes (&clamps/straps) so the the weak area has some help.

[elbie]

I'll try that. The bottom of the stalk is nice and thick but I have some clips, etc. and will try to do something.
Elbie

[WhiteRabbit]

hmm ... interesting. Could some pest have been gnawing on it?

Be careful when attempting to stake the spike, that thin area might break easily.

[Orchidgirl83]

Is the thin part soft or mushy? I had a spike get a soft spot this winter right below the tip. I had to cut it back and put a little cinnamon on the cut. It ended up putting out a side spike about a week after cutting it.

[elbie]

Yes, the spot was mushy and soft. The spike was starting to bend at that point. felt bad since there were several buds on the end but I did cut it just above the next node down on the spike. I did sterilize my clippers.
What does the cinnamon do?
Elbie

[Orchidgirl83]

It will help seal the cut so an infection doesn't start.