Orchid

Whether or not to cut off the stem of an orchid flower when the flowers fall off its stem?

My Grandfather owns an Orchid Flower plant, and has a stem where all of its flowers fell off. Should he leave the the stem for more flowers to grow, or should he cut the stem from the plant? Please help!!! Thanks!!!

Public Comments

1. Depends on the orchid. Moth orchids may branch and produce more blooms on old spike, but this happens within a few months of the last bloom falling...longer than that, chop it off. Good luck.
2. My suggestion is that you cut the spent stem off about an inch from the bottom. This stem will only product more blooms if it's a Phalaenopsis type (or similar) orchid, and even then, only under excellent conditions. Your best bet is to cut it off, then make sure you water the plant the right amount (if you're not sure about the hybrid you have, water it thoroughly once a week and let it drain completely, so it doesn't sit in any water), keep it by a bright window and hope that another flower spike grows next season (if it's a Phal.), or that another growth appears, that will eventually put up a spike. Your best bet is to find out, at least approximately if you don't have a lable, which hybrid your Grandfather owns, and follow the culture instructions for that hybrid. Orchids can be simple or difficult to bring to bloom again, depends on the hybrid and the light & temperature conditions. Good luck!