Pruning is one of the important subjects in orchid care. This article answers questions about how and where to prune an orchid, and discusses pruning time and season.
Orchid pruning time and season
When should an orchid be pruned? There is no single answer. With suitable conditions, Phalaenopsis can flower twice a year and remain in bloom for a total of 7–8 months. Pruning time therefore depends on the flowering period.
Can we make an orchid flower twice a year at home?
The answer depends on the care conditions and what you do for the orchid. To obtain two flowering periods, first provide basic care: plenty of light, limited direct sun, ventilation, timely and appropriate watering, and plant feed. With correct pruning after the flowers fall, the same spike can flower a second time.
How do you prune an orchid?
After the flowers fade and fall, if there is no obvious budding at the spike tip, leave all closed buds or nodes and cut below the lowest former flower stem. The article recommends pruning shears or a sharp knife so the spike is not crushed or damaged. It also stresses sterilising the knife or shears with flame and alcohol.
How do you prune a drying orchid spike?
If spikes are beginning to yellow and look unhealthy, the article describes counting three nodes from the base and cutting above the third node.
Sometimes orchids yellow and dry their spikes immediately after losing flowers. If the roots are healthy, this need not alarm you. In this case, cut the yellowing spike leaving 2–3 cm above its base. A healthy orchid will produce new spikes from the base and flower again when ready.
How should a pruned orchid be cared for?
The article describes using diluted cinnamon after pruning, as it does when pruning roots during repotting, to help protect the plant against fungal and bacterial infection. Related guide
With suitable conditions, continued care and support from Solo Plant orchid feed, the article describes a pruned orchid producing side branches from the same spikes and flowering again soon.
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