phal stem rotting?

[velvetreveler]

Hi! I'm new to this site and to growing orchids. My parents gave me a beautiful white phal. orchid for my wedding last week. It has two stems that were laden with flowers and a few buds. In just one week, however, flowers began dropping from one of the stems and I've noticed today that the stem has turned yellow and is squishy, as if it's rotting. Help!

[janet_a]

congrats.

you don't know how long the plant was in bloom before you got it; that spike may just be done blooming. if the rest of the plant is green and firm and happy, just enjoy it.

see also:

http://aos.org/aos/orchids/page01.aspx

also, poke around under culture and newbie questions on here for a few mins and you'll see a lot of discussions of phals. remember: they're like potato chips--you can't have just one.

[mayres]

How often are you watering your phal and what is it planted in (media - bark, sphag moss, or other?). Overwatering is the most common problem. Whatever it is being displayed in - make sure it is not sitting in water too. Try to water in the morning hours and do not get any water in the crown of the plant. As Janet noted, just cut off the spike that is browned. If other issues come up let us know and possibly post a pic and you will get plenty of helpful comments. Congratulations on your wedding and Enjoy!

[fred]

Hello and welcome to the forum
I hope that you enjoy your stay with us.
Is it possible for you to post a pic of your orchid. ?
It may give us a better chance to help you with your plant.
happy chatting