Sick Orchid

[winter319]

I bought an Orchid from Trader Joe's over Christmas Break, and I was fine until I moved across the state. I have to have it inside and away from the window because it is below freezing outside. The tag says its a Phal Taisuco Eros??? I feed it twice a month, with some special orchid food mixed with luke warm water, and moved it around my room. To my dismay, it got sick. The stem is a sickly yellow color and the blooms are closing. I have no idea what to do! Help!!???

[digitalgate]

the bloom probably over, nonthing to worry about. Unless more symptom came up.

[kmarch]

Your plant is a Phalaenopsis (Phal.). Phals are probably the most popular orchid to grow in your home.

By "stem" do you mean the part that held the flowers? If so, then as digitalgate says, this is normal and nothign to worry about. This is not a sign your plant is sick, rather it's just finished blooming for the season.

Now that your plant is finished blooming, when the stem is completely dry and dead, you can cut if off near its base. Over the course fo the next few months you won't see much activity on your plant, it may grow a leaf or two, it may sit for a while doing nothing. Phals usually start to grow a new flower spike in the fall and bloom in winter, so don't expect more blooms any time soon.

Go to the American Orchid Society or look on this forum for culture sheets on Phalaenopsis growing. They will give you useful information.

Welcome to the forum and happy growing!

[snowballsarebad]

A change in conditions will sometimes cause the blooms to drop early. It doesn't mean there is anything wrong with the plant, unless you've also noticed changes with the leaves; for example, have they become wrinkly and limp? Or changed color?
You'll also likely be asked to update your location, for future help (climate differences often affect care). I see you're from Pullman...but what state? Washington?
Anyhow, welcome to the site I hope you find us helpful.

[winter319]

Thanks for all the help!!! The leaves seams fine, so I guess its done for the season... Just as long as I didn't kill it!

Yep, I am suck in Pullman, Washington. Originally from Seattle, but going to school over here. I love it but I could do without the 4 feet of snow with more falling each minute.

How far down should I cut the stem off?

[mayres]

I cut mine just as far down towards the base as you can safely cut without scarring the plant. During this next period enjoy the leaves and roots - they can be nearly as exciting as the flowers!

[kmarch]

Originally Posted by winter319

How far down should I cut the stem off?

Answered in my post above.

[winter319]

Oops. Skipped over that part! Thanks!

[Cynthia, Prescott, AZ]

If the stem has not dried out yet, use a sterile tool to cut with, or a new razor blade. Alcohol is not a good sterilent where orchid virus is concern. Heat is much better, or a soak in 10% bleach.

[BunnytheOrchid]

Glad its good news. I have a phal from Trader Joes too, and its been extremely forgiving of all my mistakes in learning about orchids. So I'm glad it's working for you too!