Child Item

Where to cut an orchid stem?

Christina2024

Hi. I have a beautiful phalaenopsis orchid which I have had for 1 year now. In that period it has bloomed twice with 8-10 flowers. It recently lost its flowers and the stem is growing yellow/dry looking. There is one flower remaining on a healthy looking stem. Should I cut the stem for it to grow and the flowers to bloom again and if so, by which node? Attached photos. Thanks in advance.

Find more posts tagged with

Gardening

Planting and Growing

Comments

EricL

Hello @Christina2024

If I recall the general rule to cutting orchids is to find a node under the lowest flower bloom. Trim 25mm above that node, or bump, on the orchid spike. For unhealthy, brown spikes: Cut all the way back to the base of the plant.

Let me call on our experienced members @Noelle and @mich1972 for their recommendations.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

Christina2024

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/34180#Comment_34180

Hi Eric,

Thank you for your advice. I went ahead and cut under a node. Since then, the whole stem has turned brown. Do you suggest I cut it at the base? The leaves are green and healthy which gives me hope it might grow another stem and flower again. Photo attached. Thanks in advance.

EricL

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/79633#Comment_79633

Hello @Christina2024

I'm sorry to hear that the stem did not survive. In this instance, yes, you can cut it close to the base. Please leave a bit of the stem around 25mm. If the conditions are favourable perhaps new stems will grow from your orchid.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

Christina2024

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/104220#Comment_104220

Thank you for your quick reply Eric. I will try that.

Thanks,

Christina

Child Item