subject: Orchid Pruning is Simple, Make Your Orchids Happy [print this page] Caring for indoor orchids is easily understood when given the correct information. Information on orchid pruning is in abundance on the internet. So I will focus on the most common of the indoor types, the phal orchid or phalaenopsis. However, let's establish that we do not need hard hats, gloves or chain saws. Quite the contrary, working with your orchids will be far easier and with a whole lot less effort.
Time to Prune: Picking the right time to prune is based on two things. The plant needs to be rid of old blooms and to prepare itself for the next bloom cycle. Look at the plant and watch for changes in appearance. This from a time perspective is in the fall to late fall but before winter. Blooms will cease to appear and the flower spikes will turn yellow.
How to Prune: Look closely at the orchid's flower spikes. You should see something called a node on the spike. In fact you should see more than just one. These nodes are small bumps on the spike. Most times they are referred to as fleshy green bumps. It is important to recognize these for counting up from the bottom three of theses you will make a cut. When making the cut, be up one inch from the third node. Also, this is critical, use clean sterilized cutting tools. This is the time an infection could be transmitted to the otherwise healthy orchid stem.
Effects of Pruning: A couple different things can and will happen from the pruning. First of all, making this cut has no ill effect on the plant. This actually helps the orchid to develop new bloom shoots or spikes on the plant. This is where the new blooms will come from in the next bloom cycle. This pruning can also induce the orchid to make babies or pups. What a bonus! These pups need to be left alone to develop, but once they have, they can be potted and you will have new plants. Well, get along little doggie.
Pruning During Repotting: A phal needs to be repotted every two to three years. During this process a different kind of pruning needs to take place. Inspect the roots and remove or prune any dead or sickly looking roots. This will enhance the overall health of the plant.
Enjoy your orchids and do not be afraid to take charge of them. You will have healthier and happier orchids.
