“My orchid’s flowers have all faded—should I cut the spike or leave it?” This seemingly simple question actually holds the secret to whether your Phalaenopsis will bloom again beautifully.
Understanding the Flower Spike
The “flower spike” is the stalk that emerges from between the leaves and carries the flower buds. Once the flowers drop, it looks like nothing more than a bare stick—but don’t be fooled, it’s not useless.
When to Leave the Spike
If your orchid has strong roots, lush green leaves, and no signs of yellowing or softness, you can leave the spike in place. Some Phalaenopsis orchids still have the energy to push out new buds from the middle or tip of an old spike, a phenomenon known as “reblooming on the same spike.” For example, my neighbor’s orchid bloomed again about a month after the first flush without cutting the spike. The downside? Keeping the spike drains the plant’s energy. Without enough light or proper watering, the orchid may delay new leaf growth, postpone its next bloom cycle, or produce weaker flowers.
When to Cut the Spike
If your orchid’s leaves look yellow, roots appear weak, or the spike itself has shriveled or turned black, it’s best to cut it off. But don’t cut it flush at the base—leave a 3–5 cm stub. This helps prevent infection and leaves a chance for new shoots to sprout from the stub. After cutting, dab the wound with a fungicide (like thiophanate-methyl) and let it dry before resuming regular watering. Cutting the spike allows the orchid to redirect nutrients to root and leaf growth, strengthening the plant and ensuring a more vigorous bloom next time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some beginners leave every spike, thinking it guarantees reblooming. But if the plant is weak, this can exhaust it, stunting new leaves and roots.
Others cut too harshly, removing the spike right down to the base. This leaves a large wound prone to infection.
Regardless of whether you cut the spike or not, always feed your orchid after flowering. Use a diluted orchid fertilizer about once every two weeks to help it recover. Avoid concentrated fertilizer, which can burn the roots.
Final Tip
Whether you cut the spike depends on your orchid’s condition. With proper care—cut or not—your Phalaenopsis will be ready to greet you with another round of graceful, butterfly-like blooms.
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