Phalaenopsis terminal spike

[W Stender]

Hello all,

My reason for posting the images is because I had never seen a phal produce a flower spike from the center of the monopodial stem, and I thought it was a hybrid. I wanted to know what it was so I posted the picture. I have since found out it is called a terminal spike.

So my question is, what is me next step with this plant? Can I force it to produce keikis (if so, how?) and then throw out the dying plant? Will it rebloom? (if not, then I guess I throw it out?). What should I do. Although I love orchids, if this plant will never rebloom, then what is it worth?

[quiltergal]

You are correct, that is indeed a terminal spike. That plant will not rebloom again, nor will it be able to grow any more new leaves. If you leave it and water and feed as usual the plant may send up a basal Keiki in an attempt to survive. You could also try and hurry that process along by using one of the many Keiki growth hormones on the market. Don't throw it out just yet.

[Gin]

I have one that did the same it now has a large basal keiki . they grow fast , all is not lost . Gin

[kimstwin]

What causes that? It seems like the plant looks basically healthy.

[W Stender]

OK, does anyone have images of a keiki, so I know what to look for and how do you use this growth homone to speed things allong?

[Dorothy]

W Stender - I hope this past thread will shed some light for you -
http://www.orchidboard.com/community...iki-spike.html
It has a photo of my hybrid phal with 2 keikis .. one on spike and the other basal.

[W Stender]

Thanks Dorothy, the post was helpful to a point. But I still do not understand where I am supposed to supply this Keiki growth hormaone, if at all. I plan to go to the Longwood gardens orchid show the end of March and I will try to pick up some of this Keiki growth hormone then.

[quiltergal]

Search the forum for basal Keiki and it should turn up lots of threads discussing them along with different products and where to purchase them. You apply the product to the base of your parent plant.

[Ross]

I've had this as well and my experience with the keiki (which formed all on it's own) was dismal at best. A few short spikes with 2-3 flowers, halted growth. I haven't given up, but it has done nothing constructive in over a year. Just wanted you to be aware of what may come.

[dianeseidler]

Hi: My name is Diane and I am entirely new to the orchid
world. My last flower just fell and I need to know where to cut back. I will really appreciate any advice you have to give.
Thanks