How to Trim Orchids for Beginners

Trim orchids when the flowers have died to encourage new growth.

Only the Phalaenopsis orchid will rebloom from its old spike, according to the American Orchid Society. It is possible to encourage a new surge of bud growth on your Phalaenopsis orchids with the right trimming technique. Flower spikes, or stems, that are left untouched and untrimmed will also rebloom, but with each bloom, the flowers will be smaller and smaller. Trimming orchids after bloom will result in the same big, beautiful blooms you enjoyed the first time around.

Things You'll Need

• Razor blade or pruning shears
• Vinegar or bleach solution

Instructions

1. Locate the nodes on the stem. The nodes look like two brown notches that encircle the stem just below where the flowers were.

2. Sterilize sharp pruning shears or a straight razor blade in a 2-to-1 vinegar solution or a 10-percent bleach solution.

3. Make a cut halfway or three-quarters of the way down the stem, about 1½ inches above the node. Remove the top part of the spike and discard it.

4. Feed and water your orchid as you normally would; in two to three months, you can expect new buds. In another month, a new flower will bloom.

Tips & Warnings

• This trimming method works best for an orchid that's had just one bloom.

References

• American Orchid Society: Where Do I Cut the Flower Spike When It Is Finished?; 2008
• Orchid Web by Orchids Limited: Do I Cut the Spike Back When My Orchid Is Finished Blooming?