How to Keep a Cut Orchid

The most readily available and typically purchased orchids are cymbidiums, cattleyas, vandas, mokaras and dendrobiums. Even their names sound wild, exotic, rare and mysterious. It stands to reason that these cut beauties will lend the same atmosphere to your home. The secret to keeping cut orchids fresh and gorgeous is neither mysterious nor difficult, requiring little more than common sense. With good care, your freshly cut orchid will provide you with exotic beauty for anywhere from 10 days to a month, depending upon variety.

Sharp, clean scissors
Sugar
Water
Vase

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase the freshest and best quality orchid you can.
- 2
  Put the stem in tepid water for a few minutes if the bloom seems to be wilted.
- 3
  Snip the tip of the orchid stem under cool running water with sharp, clean scissors. Make your cut at about a 45-degree angle.
- 4
  Dissolve 1/2 tsp. of sugar into a quart of water. Fill the vase halfway with the solution and add the cut orchid to the vase.
- 5
  Place your cut orchid in a cool room out of direct sunlight. Keep it away from natural air drafts, and heating and air conditioning vents.
- 6
  Change the water in the cut orchid's vase every three to five days.
- 7
  Re-cut the tips of the orchid stem once weekly.

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