Phal without a stem, care and what to expect?
 

Hello all,
I received this Phal in the mail today. :biggrin:

I have questions..
1. Will this old stem come off on its own? Or is it growing? I cannot tell.
2. Could I use keiki paste at the base of the orchid to try to grow another stem, or is this not recommended?
3. Is there any special care tips I should know to take care of a phal with no stem / blooms?

Photos: Jiaho's Pink Girl - Album on Imgur

What you have there is a very healthy-looking Phalaenopsis from Orchids by Hausermann, a highly-respected vendor. It is not "without a stem." I believe what you are referring to is the old inflorescence, or flower spike, which has spent itself in last year's blooming, dried up, and was cut off. That is normal! If the looks of it bothers you, you can always carefully cut it off a little closer to the base.

It will produce a new inflorescence and flowers approximately once a year. Hybrids such as yours usually, but not always, start producing a new spike in the fall, but because it will be adjusting to its new conditions with you, it could be on an irregular schedule for a while.

It looks to have a very healthy root system. It also appears to be in one of those flimsy plastic nursery pots. I normally repot those as soon as convenient into the type of pots I prefer, with the potting medium I prefer.

I would definitely not use keiki paste. Just let it grow naturally. If properly cared for, it should reward you with new flowers each year.

There is lots of good Phalaenopsis culture information in this "sticky thread" The Phal abuse ends here.

Just to add to what Mountaineer370 said about the growth cycle of new inflorescences... my mantra is, "Orchids teach patience". They don't do anything fast, progress is measured in months not days. So follow Mountaineer370's advice with regard to potting this plant... no rush, but when you have your "materials" available, a better pot and fresh medium are desirable.

Different orchids have different flowering seasons. If you choose carefully you can have different plants in bloom throughout the year.

Thank you so much for the explanation!

---------- Post added at 05:22 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:17 PM ----------

I understand now! I will be more patient...I won't, and can't force anything to happen. I will just do my best to care for them...I have so many phals to repot soon! :D
Thanks for the link! <3