Phalaenopsis Flower Spike Yellowing: Natural Die-Back

Yellowing Flower Spikes on Phalaenopsis: Genetic Trait

Esthea's Phalaenopsis (6 months, gorgeous) has stalks turning yellow/brown at ends, looking like dying. Bottom leaves wilted (lost before, no effect). Plant in good light, sprayed every second day. Asks advice.

Expert Response

Esthea, "stalks" likely old flower spikes. Some Phalaenopsis hybrids naturally have spikes die back. Cut off where spike joins plant. Future flowering from new spikes next year. To keep plant healthy for future blooms, repot in standard orchid mix in new plastic pot with drainage. Soak fir bark mix while unpotting. Rinse roots, remove mushy (rotting). Repot healthy roots (firm, green when wet). Rotate pot while lowering roots, add wet mix, tap pot. Drain before placing in growing area.