Question
I accidentally broke the 7" spike on my wonderful 5-yr-old phalenopsis. (The spike is now about half that size.) She was doing SO well too! Am I doomed to a bloomless year? In a desperate effort to save her, I've taped the pieces back together, but I have a feeling the only thing this will help will be her appearance.

Thanks in advance for any advice you can provide.

Karen

Answer
Hi Karen,

I'm sorry to hear about the accident with your phalaenopsis orchid spike.  I'm afraid that if it broke off completely, it is a goner and will slowly turn brown.  But, with that said, there is a glimmer of hope that the lower part of the spike that was not affected will produce a secondary or offshoot spike.  If there is a node (looks like a tiny leaf covering a bump in the spike), it may produce a side spike from the node.  If it does, it may take a while so be patient.  But if the spike begins to turn brown from the break point downward, that is a sign that the spike will not do its thing.  

One thing.  If the flower buds on the broken spike were beginning to swell (enlarge), you might try cutting the bottom of the spike off and placing it in some water.  If all goes well, a few of the buds might open.  They will not be as large or open as they would have been if it were still attached to the phal. but at least you can get a little pleasure from seeing them for a week or so.  If you try this, be sure to replace the water every few days to keep it fresh.  

Sorry I couldn't be of more help.  Good luck.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.