The orchid is a wonderful and elegant flower that is worth having in your home. There are several important steps in caring for it, one of which is pruning. It allows you to control the growth of the orchid, remove diseased leaves and prepare it for replanting. Learn more about the pruning method to make sure you do it right.
Sterilize your scissors
Before you start pruning, first, sterilize the pruning shears. This is necessary because orchids can get viruses and diseases from cuts with dirty blades.
6 useful tips for growing ORCHIDS at home
How to extend the flowering period of an orchid with pruning?
Some of the most popular and common varieties of orchids are phalaenopsis, oncidium and dendrobium. They can be pruned to extend their flowering period. When you spot the last flower on these varieties ready to die, count three nodes and use sterilized shears to cut off the end of the flower spike completely. This will encourage new growth.
How to prune an orchid to remove rotten or diseased leaves?
If you notice brown or black rotten spots on the leaves of the orchid, you should trim them. Using sterilized scissors, cut out any rotten and discolored spots to protect your flower.
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How to prune your orchid before transplanting?
As orchids thrive, they will eventually outgrow their original pots and need to be repotted. When you get to that point and that activity – it’s time to prune.
After removing the orchid from the pot, remove any moss or bark from the roots. Clean the roots carefully and inspect them. Cut off all dead roots, dead leaves, bulbs and canes. Replant with clean bark and moss. This will ensure good growth and reduce its size if necessary.
