phal losing buds

[slippery_biscuit]

First post,fairly new to orchids. Got a Phal that has sent out two, what do you call them, stems? maybe spikes? anyway, these came off of last years spike and buds started to form but before they flowered, they dried up and fell off. I think I'm doing okay with the water. Maybe too close to a window? Got another plant during the holidays and it was starting to look like the flowers were wilting.... checked the pot (it came with other plants) and the soil was pretty damp. I seperated the phal out and repotted in bark so I'll see what happens with that.

I've about a dozen and a couple more on the way. I'll have a bunch more questions soon.

Thanks, and Happy New Year. The time is 12:24 am 01/01/07. Off to bed


Jeff

[Aniko]

New plants need some time to get accustomed with your home conditions. Drastic change can stress the plant a little bit causing bud blast or shortening the lifetime of the bloom.If you keep them next the window, make sure that no direct sunshine or cold air touch them.
When you get new Phals is good to check the roots pulling out carefully the whole root ball from the pot.Often you'll find rotten roots or decaying potting medium.Fix these problems and your phals will thrive.A healthy, strong root system is crucial for the future development. There is a "skewer method" to control the moisture and prevent over watering.
Good luck!
Aniko.

[slippery_biscuit]

Thanks for the tip, and I've read in a few other posts that this is not all that uncommon. Will confirm local environment for the plant and press on.

Jeff

[atcrosby]

Aniko is dead on.

I got a Phal for Christmas with an orange flower. It literally fell of from the time I put it on the tray and left to get the camera for a picture. One thing to be careful of is not to have the roots too damp. Although Phals like to stay moist, they don't like to be wet.

Luckily for me, the plant started another bud which is just starting to open today.