How to Prune Orchid Flowers

Purchase a pair of bypass shears, which have a lower clip that cradles the stem in order to protect the orchid from being harmed during pruning. Avoid using anvil shears, because they tend to smash the stem.

Inspect the plant for any diseased or pest infested branches or stems. Look for pits underneath the leaves or fine webbing. Any sugary liquid or black fungus suggests aphids. Bumps on the leaves are hard-shelled insects called scales. Mealybugs look like white fuzz on the orchid.

Dip your bypass shears in a solution of ten percent denatured alcohol and water every time you cut off any diseased part of the plant to prevent spreading the disease or fungi.

Cut back any flower stem after it blooms. Cut an inch below the old blossom. Be sure that your leave at least an inch of stalk.

Prune an 1/4-inch above the node to promote new blooms. The node is the leaf-like bract that is attached to the stalk.

Lift cymbidiums and dendrobiums and inspect their roots. These types of orchids must have their roots pruned. Cut away any unhealthy or brown roots. Replant the orchid using fir bark.