Question
QUESTION: Hi Wayne King,

I'd like to know how to cut phalaenopsis flower spike after flowering to re-bloom, for single spike it is easy to cut. But for multi-braching stem one, how to cut from ? Just below of each branch or just below from the main stem?

One more question is some of my phalaenopsis are suffering wet roots problem.  I think it would be better to grow it either on tree branch or use charcoal & bark mix in order to avoid such problems. Currently, the potting media is sphagnum moss. Although, I water once a week, it now becomes soggy.

Thanks in advance,
Nwe Lay

ANSWER: For cutting on either branched or unbranched spikes, cut just above the secund or third node (ie joint) on the main flower spike.  

Yes, sphagnum moss is a difficult medium to grow in.  It tends to compact, holding water too long and restricting the flow of air. If you can find a commercially prepared orchid mix, that has a fir bark base, that would be the best.  If not, use fir bark pieces that are one-half to one inch in diameter, same for charcoal, and add perlite that has been sifted to remove the finest particles.  I recommend proportions of 2:1:1 fir bark/charcoal/perlite.  Be sure to soak the fir bark first as, when dry, it is water repellant. Be sure to remove any roots that are mushy or stringy and rinse the roots before repotting the plant.  I prefer plasic pots for phalaenopsis as these generally have lots of drainage holes.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Wayne King,

Thanks for your reply.

Could phalaenopis be grown as outdoor plants? If possible, how to do it?

Thanks in advance,
Nwe Lay

Answer
I have seen them grown outdoors. They prefer moderate conditions so avoid bright sunlight, temperatures over 85 degrees, and rain which could result in crown rot.  If you want to attempt it, try it with only one plant at the outset and monitor it closely.  Light might be the biggest problem, so gradually introduce it to brighter light but never full afternoon sunlight.