new buds

[shirljune12]

I had an orchid bought me last year and was told that when all flowers had died and dropped off to cut stem down so that new growth could be made but when only 3 flowers were left on a new leaf has started to grow and 2 new buds what do i do as the stems are bare apart from 3 old flowers on the end with 2 buds
thank you
shirl

[Cynthia, Prescott, AZ]

Phals can grow and bloom at the same time. I would just enjoy your blooms.

[jerrymeola]

You might find the new flowers are smaller and less exciting than the originals. Commercial growers cut them off to allow the plant to regain strength for the next blooming year. If you like they way they look then keep them and enjoy them.

Certain species like Newberry parfait can branch and bloom for up to two years while keeping the size and beauty of the original flowers. I lasted 19 months before I accidently killed the flower stem.

Since yours is branching before the flowers died, i would think it has some of these same genetics. You may have a real winner here.