The first step in taming an orchid is to cut the flower spike back to its base, which is the place on the plant’s main stem or pseudobulbs or keikis where the spike initially appeared. If the stem is brown or yellow and shriveled, it will not produce any more flowers. Trimming orchids after blooming is essential for their health and longevity. The best time to trim orchids is immediately after the flowers have fallen off.
Once the flowers have fallen, the stem may turn yellow, indicating that the orchid is done with the stem. If the stem is brown or has begun to soften, cut it off with a sterile instrument to the base. This redirects the plant’s energy to the roots. Healthy stems on Phalaneopsis orchids after blooming can be cut off.
If the entire flower spike starts to turn brown and dry up, it is time to cut the whole stem off. After the flowers have fallen, trim the stem back to about one inch above a healthy node, which is a small, knob-like growth on the stem where new leaves and flowers can emerge. Look for a green and slightly plump node.
If the flower spike is a healthy green color, prune it about an inch above the node. Some people believe it is best to cut off the stem entirely at the base where it comes out of the leaves, as it will bloom again in several months.
After the orchid flowers fall off, it is generally a good idea to trim the stems. Cut the stems just above the node where you see a small bump. For healthy, green spikes, find a node under the lowest flower bloom and trim 1 inch above that node. For unhealthy spikes, cut down to an inch above the first unused node.
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