Question
I received a moth orchid for a gift about 2 months ago and it bloomed beautifully. I have been vigilant to only water it about an ounce of water a week, ensuring that any excess water drains out immediately. It sits in my office where we have the lights on all day and more indirect light comes in through the window.

In the last week, every single bloom has fallen off and I came back to work Monday morning to see that the one and only stem has turned yellow and shriveled over about half of the length. It has sprouted a nice new green leaf on top, which I thought was a good sign. But the yellow stem is progressing. Should I cut the stem? Is it dying? Am I not watering enough? Help!

Answer
Hello Celeste,

The yellowing of the stem is normal once the flowers have all wilted and died off.  As for the flowers, phalaenopsis orchid flowers will usually last for two to three months then slowly die off.  

Yes you can cut the stem off by going down to the bottom of the stem then back up an inch or two and cut it off.  Having a new leaf appear is a good sign, continue to care for it.  The new leaf should grow to be as large or larger than the older leafs, if it doesn't that could indicate that there may be a problem that needs your attention.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.