Question
It is finished blooming; I repotted it a few weeks ago. The upper part of the branch that just flowered, as well as the upper part of the parent stalk are brown. What could be the problem?
I live in southern Ct. and seem to have adequate conditions--two of my others are starting to bloom or are developing buds.


Answer
Hello Denny,

If it is just the branch (spike) that had flowers on it that is turning brown, that is normal and nothing to be concerned about.  Most phalaenopsis orchid spikes begin turning brown from the tip downward after the flowers have all fallen off, the browning happens only to the spike and does not continue into the plant itself.  

But, as I said, "most" phalaenopsis do this which means there are some on which the spike does not turn brown but remains green for several years, these can develop buds in the following season when the spike begins a new growth spurt.  For this reason, it is best to leave any spike alone for several months after the flowers are gone to determine what type it is.  

That's great to hear, several others are beginning the bloom cycle and you will soon have flowers to brighten winter in Ct.  

Hope this helped.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.