Question
My Phal
Hi there, In the first week of May I received a very large Phal as a gift. It bloomed until about mid-June, then the last blooms fell. I did some research and cut back the stem just a bit (not completely) with a new blade and added the cinnamon to the wound. I did not repot the phal, but I see you recommend doing this every time. Is it too late for me to do this? I worry mine might need to be re-potted.
I didn抰 think a new leaf would form so at the time I did not cut the stem all the way down. Now a new leaf has been growing and it is now about 2-3 inches long. Should I cut the old stem off and let the plant focus on leaf growth? Or would this be damaging to the plant?
It has been several weeks since I have had a bloom and I worry I am doing something wrong. I have never cared for an orchid before I appreciate your help.
AnswerAlissa, it is not too late to repot. Be sure to soak the new orchid potting mix for a couple of hours before using if it is a dry mix. Your plant is strong enough to retain both the old green flower spike and the new leaf growth. Don't be surprised if the old, green flower spike also develops a new plantlet at a node (ie joint#. Be careful not to damage the roots during the repotting.. Phalaenopsis orchids usually bloom only once per year #usually in the spring), so now concentrate on growing the plant well. Reblooming needs adequate light so. if your leaves are a dark green, you should consider increasing the light level some. They do well in an east facing window where they can get some morning sunlight.
