How to Deadhead Orchids

Although gardeners don't often like the word "dead" in reference to their plants, "deadheading" a plant refers to removing spent blooms to allow the plant to grow new flowers. While several thousand orchid species exist, the plant has similar care instructions, especially when it comes to deadheading. Deadheading doesn't take any special equipment; in fact, you'll just use your fingers. Taking a few moments to inspect your plant and remove the spent blooms enables the plant to focus energy on producing new flowers.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Inspect the plant for spent, withered flowers. Although leaving spent blooms won't hurt the plant, they don't look very attractive.

   • 2

     Pinch the withered flower just below the stem and gently pull upward to remove the bloom off the stem. Ensure that you remove all parts of the flower from the stem and don't leave anything behind.

   • 3

     Dispose of the bloom. Don't let the bloom fall on the potting mix; it could bread disease.