Orchid Care: Cutting

Orchids are among the most beautiful flower species on the planet. Over 20,000 variation exist and many people choose to grow them at home. Orchids thrive as houseplants with a little attention to their specific needs. This includes cutting them back after they bloom to encourage new growth. Cut properly, the plant can bloom several times a year.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• Candle wax

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Cut the flower spike after the flower drops and the stem starts to turn brown. Cut it halfway down the stem. Use a razor sharp blade or pruning shears.

   • 2

     Drip melted candle wax onto the stem to prevent an infection in the cut stem. Alternatively, dust with cinnamon powder.

   • 3

     Care for your plant as usual. Do not move it to a new location, use bark instead of soil and feed sparingly. You will see new flowers in three or four months.