stressed phal with node shoot

[JKostell]

I have a phalaenopsis which is recovering from root rot following re-potting about a month ago. It was nearly finished blooming when I repotted it. It has 1 healthy and 2 stressed leaves but obviously likes its new situation. It is starting to send a shoot off a node from the old spike. My question is, should I allow it to bloom (which requires energy and may stress it further) or should I cut off the old spike and the new shoot to allow the plant to recover more?

[jkofferdahl]

I would allow the plant to use the energy for growth and recovery rather than a second blooming. Allowing the second blooming could set the plant back rather than helping it. Thus, I would cut.

[mayres]

I'll second the motion. Cut the spike down at the base and build up your plant for better blooming in the future.

[BikerDoc5968]

As much as I enjoy the flowers, I have to agree that a living plant will almost always flower down the road so cut away and nurse the plant back to health and next season you'll have a wonderful plant that has the energy to throw a great flower show!

[paulemar]

I'd cut the spike just below the new flower shoot. That way you will have a little more green in the stem to assist the stressed plant with growth. Plus, there is always a chance that you may get a keiki from the lower nodes on the stem which would also help strengthen your original plant. Besides, if you do get one, that could be some insurance against losing the whole plant at some point.

Paul