Q.Why is my orchid’s shoot dying?
I have an indoor orchid that has a main shoot about to flower. It started to grow another shoot, which has become brown and soft over the past few days and I don’t know why. The rest of the plant looks healthy – the roots, leaves and flower buds are all fine. Is it pouring all of its growing energy into the shoots?
It’s placed in bright light and gets some direct sun and has been in the same place for 6 months.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It could be a few different things.
I'm not sure where you are located, but Phalaenopsis Orchids will not flower, fully, until it receives AT LEAST 12 hours a day of pitch black, darkness. No light Whatsoever.
They are also not suited for full sun, but can handle some window light. They are best suited for dappled light.
They need fertilizer at least once per month, but do best with a foliar spray feeding of 1/2 strength orchid fertilizer spray once every two weeks.
Under, and overwatering are very common. They need to remain moist, in an orchid mix instead of potting soil. Potting soil will kill them by suffocation and too much of the wrong nutrients. They also require a lot dryer conditions prior to setting bloom, without letting them dry out completely.
This article will help you to care for these orchids: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/orchids/indoor-orchid-care.htm
