When and How to Prune Orchids

14.12.2023 - 14:57 / gardenerspath.com / Kristine Lofgren

When and How to Prune Orchids

If you’re hosting a bunch of orchidists at a dinner party and you really want to stir the pot, ask them for their opinions on pruning orchids.

It’s not that pruning orchids is particularly hard or anything, it’s actually pretty easy when you know how.

We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission.

How and when to prune your plant will vary according to which orchid species you are growing – some shouldn’t ever be pruned and others need specific maintenance if you want them to rebloom.

This guide will lay it all out in an easy-to-understand way so that you can figure out when and how to prune your particular type of orchid.

Not sure what type of orchid you are growing? Check out our guide to the different types.

Here’s what’s on the agenda:

Before you even think about pruning your orchid, it’s important that whenever you’re trimming your plants, you must use clean tools. Wipe your clippers or scissors thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol.

With all the species on this list, only remove leaves if they’re diseased, dead, dying, or deformed, otherwise leave them in place. If you need to, cut them off right at the base.

Let’s start with the most popular genus: the Phalaenopsis.

The Phalaenopsis species aka moth orchid is always the belle of the ball. It’s the most popular genus commercially thanks to its massive blossoms in a rainbow of colors that bloom for months at a time.

Once those beautiful flowers fade, it’s time to get out those pruners, wipe them down with isopropyl alcohol, and start the work.

Prune the flower stem off as close to the base as you can. It can be a challenge because the stem emerges from right