It is always an unforgettable experience when orchids produce their magnificent flowers. But when the last flower falls off, it is time to properly cut and care for the faded orchids so that they can give us beautiful colors again.
Orchids are delicate flowers that are loved by many. When they produce their enchanting flowers, it is a joyful experience for every owner. However, although the beautiful flowers can last for months, they will eventually fade, which is a sign that the plant is entering dormancy. Learn here how to remove faded orchidscut correctlyare intended to improve the health of the plant and promote flower formation and leaf growth.
Although orchids are often considered delicate plants, they are quite easy to care for. The most important thing when growing them is actually to cut and care for them properly after flowering. And the cooler temperatures of fall give you one of the best opportunities to encourage rebloom in the coming months. If this is your first time owning an orchid, it can be a stressful task, but don't worry and just follow the steps.
Also read:How to get orchids to bloom after dormancy
Cut stems after flowering
As soon as the orchid flowers have faded and fallen off, you can cut off the dead shoots. This is particularly useful for multi-stem orchids such as Phalaenopsis, which can produce new flowers on the same stem. Just be sure to do this only after all the flowers have fallen and wait shortly after to make sure no new flowers appear.
But before you start, you will need a pair of pruning shears, which you should carefully sterilize with rubbing alcohol.
- Green shootsThose that look healthy should be cut off from below above the second to third eye.
- Ifon the stemyellow or brown spotsIf the plant is in a state of disrepair, cut it back completely so that the plant grows back healthier.
- Brown stems, which have died, should be cut off completely to the base as they will not produce any more flowers.
Single-shoot orchids such as Dendrobium orchids do not produce flowers on an old shoot, so it is recommended to cut off the dead shoot about one to two centimeters above the base. However, they do not like having their stems cut off completely.
Should you cut the orchid leaves?
As a rule, the orchid leaves should not be cut back, although this makes sense in certain circumstances.
Wilted leaves usually fall off on their own, but you canthe yellow leavesalso remove with stylized secateurs. Cut at the base where the leaf connects to the stem.
Leaves that show signs of disease should also be removed completely instead of just cutting off the damaged parts. Treat the disease and wait for the plant to recover.
Withered orchids: repotting and aerial root pruning
It is recommended to repot the orchid after cutting. Choose a pot that is 2 sizes larger than the pot the flower is currently in.
Pull the plant out of the pot and carefully remove any remaining substrate. Inspect the aerial roots carefully to see if there are any dead parts.
Cut off any brown, rotten roots with sharp scissors to prevent root rot and place the plant in the new pot that you filled with fresh substrate.
Care tips after flowering
After repotting the orchid into a larger container with well-drained substrate, place it in a suitable location where it will receive enough sunlight. However, look out for browning or yellowing leaves as these can be a sign that the plant is being exposed to too much sun. If this is the case, choose another oneLocation for your orchid.
After cutting and repotting, allow the plant a few days to recover before watering it thoroughly. Once it has recovered, you can start watering regularly, remembering to apply it less frequently during the rest period.
Do not water the flower too often and always check the substrate beforehand to see if it feels dry. Orchids can rot and die if watered too often. Also be careful not to get the leaves wet when watering and if you do, wipe them off with a paper towel.
After flowering, the orchid enters the dormant phase and should therefore not be fertilized. As soon as new shoots and leaves appear, it should be used againa balanced fertilizerbe supplied.
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