Question and Answer

Subject: Cutting spike From: Susan aol.com Date sent: Wed, 22 Aug 2001 Hi! Got a question on Phalaenopsis. After the flowers fall off, how far back do you cut the cane? After the last flower or the first. Usually, how long will it take before it blooms again? Thanks!

Hi Susan Thanks for the question Phalaenopsis spikes will often reflower from the old spike and therefore should not be removed unless they have yellowed and withered. The re-branching could occur anywhere along the spike, and will normally occur, if it does occur, in 3-4 weeks. It is therefore worth leaving the old spike for some time to see what occurs. Once the new branch appears then you can trim the old spike back close to the new branch. If the old spike does not rebranch and flower, depending on the plant - size and culture - new spkes willl usually appear in 3 to 6 months but it can depend on the variety. Sometimes allowing the plant to dry out for 2-3 weeks somewhat (but not to aridity!!!!) will encourage new flower spikes to form. Just reduce watering for the period - perhaps just misting the foliage - will often produce the desired result Good growing With kind regards Phil

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