When to cut old spikes

[Ray]

Vandas will only bloom once per spike. Cut the old ones back as close to the plant as possible without damaging the plant.

[poppy86orchids]

So would this be where the last bloom was, or below? Sorry I must sound far too novice to even own a Vanda! I am confused of the spike ends, and the stem begins.

[RosieC]

Originally Posted by poppy86orchids

So would this be where the last bloom was, or below? Sorry I must sound far too novice to even own a Vanda! I am confused of the spike ends, and the stem begins.

I'm afraid I don't know much about Vandas but from pictures I've seen I imagine you should be able to see a thiner spike which is not part of the actual plant.

They seem to have central stem with the leaves growing out of it. This is the actual plant and should not be cut. Is there then a thinner spike which had the flowers on which grows out of the plant.

If so this is the bit which should be cut back as close to the plant as possible (without damaging the plant).

If not then maybe someone with more Vanda experience will be able to help.

[D-D-]

Hi Rosie, I'm mystified. I thought you may have been thinking of Doritis or one of the highbreds such as vandanopsis. But all appear to spike from the stem near the roots.D-D-

[RosieC]

I'm afraid I can't locate the information I found before.
Although a google search shows that some sites are selling 'continuous flowering' phalenopsis.

I don't think I dreamt it

[poppy86orchids]

Thanks for your help ... I've done ... I've cut the spike that has gone brown/yellow! Scared!
On looking over the leaves, I appear to have another spike coming, I think, hope and pray!