Should I cut the flower spike off my orchid?

Cut Back the Orchid Flower Spike Withered stems won’t produce flowers. Removing the stem will direct the +plant’s energy toward root development, which makes for a healthier plant and increased chances for new bloom spikes.

Should orchid stems be cut after blooming?

Stems that are healthy on Phalaneopsis orchids after blooming can be cut back to the second or third node. These might actually produce a bloom from the growth node. Removing only part of the stem is a part of orchid care after blooms drop recommended by collectors and growers.

Where do you cut orchid spikes?

For healthy, green spikes: Find a node under the lowest flower bloom. Trim 1 inch above that node. For unhealthy, brown spikes: Cut all the way back to the base of the plant. For double-spike orchids: Cut one spike at the base of the plant.

Will my orchid grow a new flower spike?

Orchids will grow new stems, fortunately. You can propagate a new Phalaenopsis or Vanda orchids from stem cuttings. Or you can divide a cattleya’s rhizomes. You can also expect a flower spike to grow back after cutting it down when its blooms die.

How long does it take for a new orchid spike to grow?

Orchid spikes develop quite slowly, typically over the space of 2-3 months. The rate of development depends on two main factors. Temperature and light. Increased light increases the capacity for the plant to photosynthesize and generate energy which can be used to grow the new flower spike.

What is a node on an orchid?

An orchid node is a triangular growth nodule, forming an elevated budge on the flower spike where new growth can occur. New stems, buds, or flower spikes may develop from older orchid nodes. Not all orchid nodes are productive, and in fact, most are dormant.

Will orchid spikes rebloom?

If given proper care, it will flower again. Once the flowers are spent, it is time to trim the orchid stem and wait for a new flower spike to emerge. To help you further, start by downloading my free cheat sheet to see where to cut the orchid flower spike after blooms have faded to trigger re-blooming.

Where do you cut an orchid spike?