Cutting spikes after flowering

[Deby53]

My flowers are just about gone & I'm wondering if I cut off the spikes or leave them? I have 3 phalaenopsis. One spike is 24+ inches; the other 2 are shorter. New roots growing on all 3 and new leaf on the smaller one. The leaves on the larger one isn't as green as the other 2; it's got a yellowish tinge to the leaves. I haven't had the larger one very long, it was a Mother's day gift. I've been reading the threads and appreciate the wealth of knowledge you all have and thank you for sharing with us newbies. Deby

[jerrymeola]

Phalaenopsis are the one family of orchids that you can leave the stem if you chose.

On a Phal, after the flowers are finished it is possible for the bare stem to branch and produce more flowers. Usually these second growth flowers are not as large or plentiful as the first time.

Also the plant is capable of producing a Keiki (Hawaiian for baby plant) on the stem.

Commercial growers usually cut the flower stem early to conserve strength in the plant. Producing flowers is strenuous on the plant. since second growth flowers are not as showy, they are not really sell-able at this time so they go back on the shelf till next season.

As a hobbyist you can cut it or leave it. Additional flowers are always fun for you, whether there is as many as the first time or not. Keikis are exciting for many people although they are slow to grow and not worth the effort commercially (Phals reproduce from seed faster).

So the answer is to decide how the plant is going to give you the most enjoyment.

If you decide to remove it cut it off near the bottom of the plant. If you decide to keep it cut the old part of the stem just above the first node (right about where the flowers started). If the stem gets soft or dried out hard then it is finished and should be removed.