Strange Leaves on Phal

[mam]

I have a "newbie" question. I purchase my first two phals in Feb. 2006. They have done quite well despite my failings! The first had two spikes which I left alone the first year. One spike completely died off. It re-bloomed from the second spike in Feb/March 2007 and shot up a new 2nd spike. Both 2007 spikes died, and I trimmed them off. Now the plant is shooting a new spike, however two strangely crumpled leaves have appeared from underneath the medium, almost like there is a new plant growing. Help? These leaves are separate and apart from the main plant which regularly grows new "top" leaves from the center.

[articuno75]

Hi Mam and welcome to the forum

When was the last time you did a repot? Reason I ask this because I'm wondering if you have a basal keiki (baby orchid) growing.

[mam]

Thanks for the reply. I actually haven't repotted, yet. (I probably should have repotted last year) I planned to repot after this years blooms died off. Any advice on what I should look for in case it is a new plant?

[kmarch]

If it is a new growth from the base, it will probably be attached to the base. It may or may not have roots yet. Just take care not to bump it or bruise it and take care when you water that water does not sit in the the leaves. Other than that you should be fine.

[mam]

Thank you!

[Nancy]

Please keep us posted because it sounds like you have a basal keiki growing. It's always exciting when these plants keep us guessing. Good luck with your plants!