Phalaenopsis Crown Rot and Oncidium Rebloom: Two Plant Updates

Two Wedding Gift Orchids: Phal Crown Rot, Oncidium No Bloom

15 months ago: 2 Phalaenopsis, 1 Oncidium. Bay window over kitchen sink.

Phalaenopsis #1: Thriving

Bloomed spring, now 2 huge spikes. Great.

Phalaenopsis #2: Crown Rot

Spike lasted 1 year, then crown rot at leaf junction. 2 leaves fell, rot cut out, cinnamon applied. Healthy new roots below, small leaves above cut, but stem narrow at wound.

• New leaves on old spike = keiki (baby plant).
• Let keiki grow roots (2–3"), then twist off and pot.
• Crown rot may have killed mother's growing point—keiki may be only future.
• Narrow stem: if keiki has roots, separate it. Mother may not regrow.

Oncidium: Healthy but No Bloom

• 2 plump new pseudobulbs, lots of roots, green leaves.
• "Wedge" = new pseudobulb (future spike source).
• Oncidiums bloom late spring/early summer—patience.
• 6-30-30 bloom fertilizer okay, but balanced feed during growth better.

Follow-Up: Phal #2 Crown Cut Question

Cut was on plant body (crown), not spike. Narrow "neck" with leaves above/below. Wound healed. Can you cut off top above wound?

• New leaves BELOW wound = growing point there. Top can be removed.
• Top might root if left attached, but unlikely.
• Focus on lower portion + keiki.

You're doing well—keep observing and learning.