Worried because my noid phal won't stop blooming

[Cewal]

My phal keeps sending up new shoots from the same spike that it bloomed on last spring. It has been blooming constantly for over a year. I love the blooms, but the plant is starting to look shriveled and weak. Should I cut the spike off at the base or let it keep blooming?

[Paul Mc]

I'd be concerned a bit too though this the time of year for flowers on many phals. Have you checked the roots? That is usually a tell tale sign if they are not in good shape.

[Paul Mc]

Another thought/question. How extensive and massive is the root system. If you have lots of healthy roots and the system is rather extensive, then your phal may be have the energy for that much production. Just a thought though I may be way off on that.

[silken]

If your plant has bloomed straight through for a year and is looking weak, I would give it a break and cut the flower stem. It will look nice in a vase for a while too.

After a year+ it is possibly time to re-pot anyways and a good time to check what's happening with the roots as Paul Mc says. Have you been feeding it? I think blooming takes a lot of energy as well.

[Oscarman]

Anytime a plant is starting to look shriveled is a good time to check out what is going on. Shriveled usually indicated not enough moisture getting into the plant. Roots bring in the moisture.

[Gage]

My guess is root rot. I too would cut off the spike... [moment of silence], and repot it in something that dries out 60-70% in 7-10 days, whatever medium will do that in your growing environment. If there are less than 3 roots at least 3-4 inches long, I would sphag 'n' bag. That's my 2 cents. Good luck to you! And regardless I'm happy you have been able to enjoy blooms for the past year, with all due respect to your phal's health.

[RJSquirrel]

yup time to do what needs a be done