Question
hi, I've just been given a pink phalaenopsis orchid which I'm really crazy about and really wish to enjoy for a long time, it has two stems and four open flowers on each, the only problem is that the next bud on each of the stems that was about to open has turned pink and become very wrinkly, also the buds stem has shriveled, so i don't think they will open. it still has more green buds but I'm scared the same thing will happen to them. it gets plenty of light my only concern is that there are a few roots that are sticking out of the top and bottom of the pot and these have shriveled too. what can i do to enjoy more blooms?
Thanks in advance
Alison

Answer
Allison, those buds that have become srinkly will abort and fall off.  That doesn't mean that there wil be a problem with future budding.  It may have been that the aborting buds were exposed to environmental stresses (eg cold) prior to your receiving the plant or during transport.  Shriveling roots coming out of the bottom of the pot could suggest the presence of some root rot in the potting mix-- especially if the roots have collapsed and are soft. If there is root rot in the potting mix, that also sould explain the aborting of some buds.  Enjoy the flowers and any future buds that might open.  When flowering has finished, you will need to repot your plant in fresh orchid potting mix, removing any rotted roots in the process.