blooming question

[itsme]

I recently purchased a Purple Phalaenopsis which is in bloom. How often will this plant bloom for me?

[jerrymeola]

Phals bloom once a year around this time.

They need a cooling of nights around 50 degrees with about 70 degree days. They will often do well without ideal temperatures.

[mayres]

Just like Jerry said - once per year. After blooming many varieties may send out a subspike for another show of blooms - usually slightly less flowers and possibly slightly smaller. If you prune the spike back to just above the last node this will help. On the other hand, many people would rather cut the spike off completely and allow the plant to begin building up another "head of steam" for the next major spike - which will not come until next late fall or early winter. The choice is yours......