Phal Puzzle - Orchid Board

Windy · #1 (**permalink**) 10-30-2009, 09:42 PM

I have 2 phals that lost their blooms which I felt was normal since we're going into winter here. I had thought the spikes would start to die off. They didn't. One phal has now grown one blossom and several buds are starting on the spike. Also have buds starting on the 2nd phal's spike.

I'm a newbie and from all I've read, this isn't normal.

Anyone have a clue as to what's going on?

I'm not complaining...I love the blossoms. I'm just concerned these phals are overproducing.

OrchidSue · #2 (**permalink**) 10-30-2009, 09:57 PM

I have several plants that do this on a regular basis, so I would not say that this is abnormal. If you are uncomfortable with this you can cut the spikes back so the plants can save energy for growth. If the plants are big and healthy, I wouldn't worry about it too much. I had one plant this year that just kept going and going, but needed to be repotted. I finally just cut the spike off and repotted the plant.

Susan

RosieC · #3 (**permalink**) 10-31-2009, 07:19 AM

I agree with Sue, sometimes Phals will do this if you leave the spikes.

I think some Phals are more prone to it than others.

Sandy4453 · #4 (**permalink**) 10-31-2009, 07:35 AM

Very normal and not unusual at all for many Phals to continue growing their spikes (after blooms are spent), with more buds. A lot of people will cut the spikes after the initial blooming has finished, in preparation of the following growing season, to prime the plant and give it the best chances of growing new spikes when the weather changes. I have many Phals that are still blooming since February and, some with spikes that have no blooms left but are still healthy spikes that look like keikis are about to grow so, I keep those spikes in tact. The only time I'll cut the spikes is when they turn color (dead!) or when the plant gets setback and leaves lose their firm and thick physique

. Then it's time concentrate on getting the plant back to it's optimum health. Phals with old spikes will still grow new spikes during their growing season as long as the overall health of the plant is good.

So, enjoy the surprises of these new buds on your plant.

Windy · #5 (**permalink**) 11-01-2009, 08:33 PM

Thanks all for telling me this is pretty normal. What a relief!! Yes, my plants appear to be healthy (roots, too). I may cut the spike on one of them. I want to repot it since it's planted solely in moss (bought a few months back) and I'm uncomfortable with that. Have read too many horror stories. I prefer a combo of moss and bark for phals.