Avoid overwatering which leads to the demise of many more orchids than underwatering. Constant wetness will cause the roots to rot, which leaves the plant without a means for taking up nourishment which then causes the leaves to droop and will eventually kill the plant.

If your plant has healthy, with thick, green leaves that have not become wrinkled or drooping, cut the old flower stem up high, just above a "node" and just below the lowest bloom. The plant will frequently send out a new flowering branch at that location. If your plant has thin, wilted leaves, or if the plant is small, with only 3-to-4-inch-long leaves, it is best to cut the flower stem all the way down, so that the plant does not weaken itself by blooming again right away. Carefully water and fertilize your plant to build it back into shape for future flowering on a brand-new stem. This can take up to a year or more, as Phalaenopsis, like most orchids, is a relatively slow-growing plant.

There are many reasons why buds fall off before flowering:

1. Under or over watering.

2. Temperature extremes and rapid temperature changes (heating vents, air conditioning blowing directly on the plant).

3. Fumes from natural gas leaks, paint, other chemicals.

4. Ethylene - high producers are apple, avocado, peach, pear, plum, melons, figs, and tomatoes.

5. Low humidity.

6. Genetics.

7. Aphids, thrips and some mites.

8. Changing growing location. If you want to change a plant's location so that it will be enjoyed, wait until the flower opens first.