How to Clip Orchids

Orchids are second only to poinsettias as the most popular potted plant in the United States, according to the National Gardening Association. Despite their popularity, they also have a reputation for being hard to grow. Orchids bloom on a spike and when the blooms die and fall off, the spikes must be clipped or they dry up and turn brown. Clipping the spike back allows some varieties of orchids, such as the papilio, to re-bloom on the same spike.

1-sided razor blade (optional)
Sterile cutting blade (optional)
Pruning scissors (optional)
Matches
Candle

Instructions

- 1
  Monitor your orchid for when the last bloom falls off the spike. The basic care of orchids requires you deal with the spike. You don't want your orchid devoting any of its energy reserves toward the spent and dying spike.
- 2
  Choose your clipping tool: cutting blade, pruning scissors or razor blade. Make sure the tool you use is sharp so you don't unnecessarily traumatize your orchid.
- 3
  Cut the blossom spike to about an inch from where the spike originates on your plant. If you have a variety of orchid that blooms again on the same spike, cut the spike halfway down. Make your cut above a node, or notch, on the spike.
- 4
  Light the candle to melt some wax. Drizzle the wax over the spot you cut to seal it and protect your orchid from bacterial infections.

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