Question
Hi, I have just been given an orchid by a colleague who doesn't want it as she is killing it! The problem is the spike is completely brown right down to the leave. I have given it some orchid feed. How much should I cut it back - right down to the leaves or just half way? The spike is like wood but the leaves are still beautifully green - how can I rescue this orchid??

Thanks
Kim

Answer
No need for concern Kim. It is normal for old flower spikes to die back.  Some phalaenopsis types do retain their old green flower spikes and may rebloom on them.  Whether the old flower spike dies back or stays green is genetically determined.  You may cut off the old flower spike without damaging the plant as the floer spike is dead.  This plant likely will rebloom next year by sending up a new flower spike from the base of the plant.

Once a phalaenopsis orchid ceases its bloom period, you should repot it in fresh orchid potting mix.  After you obtain a hobby bag of the orchid potting mix (Lowes and Home Depot Garden Centers usually carry this or you can order it from an orchid supply house.  There are several types of orchid potting mixes on the market so be sure to obtain the type containing fir bark particles.  Soak a small portion of the potting mix while you repot your plant.  Remove all old potting mix and check the plant roots.  Remove any that are mushy as these are dead.  Be sure to repot in a plastic pot having lots of drainage holes.  Grow in an east window if you have one available.  It will take several weeks for the plant to adjusts to its new growing environment.  It will then develop new roots and new leaves.  Most orchids bloom once each year-- usually in the spring.  Water thoroughly once per week.  Do not permit the pot to sit in water.