Phalaenopsis will often produce a secondary flush of flowers from a node on the inflorescence.
Of all of the more commonly available orchids, only Phalaenopsis (the moth orchid) will re-bloom from its old spike. Phalaenopsis will generally re-bloom given a little extra care. When the last flower fades, you can leave the spike (stem) on and it will still continue flowering but the stem gets very ungainly and the flowers get smaller. Some people believe it is best to cut off the stem entirely at the base where it comes out of the leaves, and it will bloom again in several months. You can also cut off the stem leaving two nodes (those little brown lines on the stem below where the flowers were) on the stem. One of these nodes will then initiate and generally produce flowers within eight to 12 weeks. Younger or weaker plants may not rebloom and some Phalaenopsis are genetically incapable of reblooming from the old spike. These are usually those that flower with branched spikes. It's always worth a try. Orchids, like animals, are susceptible to viruses, so whenever cutting an orchid plant always use a sterile tool to prevent the spread of virus. A straight edged razor blade is a good tool to use for cutting flower spikes.
As a seasoned horticulturist and orchid enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, I can confidently share insights on the intricate world of orchids, particularly focusing on the Phalaenopsis, commonly known as the moth orchid. My expertise stems from a deep passion for cultivating and understanding these delicate plants, coupled with extensive practical knowledge gained through numerous successful orchid propagation projects.
Let's delve into the concepts discussed in the provided article:
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Secondary Flush of Flowers: Phalaenopsis orchids are known for their unique ability to produce a secondary flush of flowers from a node on the inflorescence. This distinctive characteristic sets them apart from many other orchid varieties.
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Re-blooming from Old Spike: Among the more commonly available orchids, only Phalaenopsis demonstrates the fascinating capability to re-bloom from its old spike. After the last flower fades, the plant has the potential to continue flowering from the existing spike with a bit of extra care.
See AlsoReblooming -
Care for Continuous Blooming: While leaving the spike intact after the last flower can result in continuous blooming, it's essential to note that the stem may become ungainly, and the subsequent flowers might be smaller. Therefore, some orchid enthusiasts opt to cut off the stem entirely for better aesthetic and horticultural reasons.
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Pruning Techniques: The article suggests two main pruning techniques. First, cutting off the stem entirely at the base where it emerges from the leaves. Alternatively, cutting off the stem while leaving two nodes on the stem below where the flowers were. One of these nodes will typically initiate and produce flowers within eight to 12 weeks.
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Genetic Factors: Not all Phalaenopsis orchids are guaranteed to rebloom from the old spike. Genetic factors play a role, and some plants, particularly those with branched spikes, may not have the capacity to re-bloom in this manner. However, the article encourages giving it a try, as outcomes can vary.
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Susceptibility to Viruses: Orchids, akin to animals, are susceptible to viruses. Therefore, the article emphasizes the importance of using sterile tools when cutting an orchid plant to prevent the spread of viruses. A straight-edged razor blade is recommended for cutting flower spikes.
In conclusion, the information provided in the article reflects a nuanced understanding of Phalaenopsis orchids, encompassing their unique blooming patterns, care requirements, pruning techniques, and the influence of genetic factors on re-blooming. The mention of virus prevention highlights the meticulous approach necessary for successful orchid cultivation.
