Orchids: How to Cut Back the Stalk

Orchids represent a wide variety of plants that have different colors and bloom times. However, one thing that all orchids have in common is that the blooms develop atop tall, central stalks. These stalks are quite impressive when the orchid is in full bloom, but not very attractive once the blooms fade away. After the orchid blooms drop, you can cut back the stalk to improve the appearance of the remaining foliage.

Hand pruners or a scalpel
Cinnamon

Instructions

- 1
  Wait until the flower blossoms wilt and fall off the central orchid stalk and then wait until the stalk turns yellow or brown. The time for this to occur varies based on species.
- 2
  Hold back the lower foliage of the orchid with one hand and trace the dead central stalk back to where it emerges from the center of the orchid plant.
- 3
  Measure up approximately 1 inch from the base of the stem and cut the stalk off using pruning shears or a scalpel, making the cut straight across the top. Do not prune lower than 1 inch above the base or you may injure the other foliage or the base of the orchid plant.
- 4
  Sprinkle 1/2 tsp. of ground cinnamon in your hand and cover the cut end of the orchid stem with the cinnamon, which acts as a natural fungicide to prevent infection.

When to Propagate Nun's Orchids?

My Orchid Leaves Are Yellow & Wilting

Orchids