Orchids are one of the most sought-after species by plant lovers. This is also due to their beautiful flowers. Therefore, if you have an orchid at home and do not know how to treat it in the following content, we will explain step by step how to prune orchids to bloom. It is important to know how to do it to take care of orchids.
We will talk about how to prune indoor orchids and when it is advisable to do it. In addition, you will learn how to prune the most common species of orchids at home, some of them are Phalaepnosis, Venus, among others. Undoubtedly, with this complete guide that we will present to you, you will obtain complete information about them.
Table of Contents
Necessary Tools for Pruning Orchids
Pruning is one of the most indispensable garden tasks, as it contributes to the growth and perfect development of the plant. Therefore, we will mention the tools needed for pruning orchids:
1. Garden Shears
The first tool you will need is a garden shear, which is specially made for pruning flowers, and with them, you will be able to make simple and precise cuts without damaging the plant. In addition, it is recommended to disinfect it before making any cut, to protect the orchid from any bacteria. We recommend this garden shears kit for pruning orchids (Order here).
- 【Make Pruning Work Easier】Rust-resistant stainless steel blade are sharp and Long-Lasting for easy and smooth cut.Anti-slip and ergonomic handle make the gardener clippers more comfortable in your hand.Easy-open spring action reduces hand fatigue while cutting. you can easily to cut without damaging the vital stems and branches of your plants.
- 【User-friendly Safety Lock】These garden shears have locking mechanisms to keep the sharp blades securely closed when not in use.It is easy to maneuver and can effectively reduce accidental injuries. And the closing mechanism is firmly enough, you don’t need to worry the plant pruning shears will get locked accidentally during use.
- 【Garden Gloves for Hand Protection】One size fits most. This Gardening gloves,made of soft & comfortable cotton fabric,can protect yourself from dirt, skin wounds and nasty splinters when doing yard chores. The grip latex coating provides anti-slip or sure control when grabbing garden & yard tools.
2. Garden Gloves
It is essential to have gardening gloves on hand, as they will help you handle the plant more comfortably. They will also help protect you from any chemicals that may adhere to your hands. With these gloves, you will never have any problems pruning any plant (Order here).
- Flexible & Breathable Work Gloves: Stretchable spandex design back keep your hands cool and comfortable on the job. Please Note: These work gloves are design by men's size. could RUN LARGE for women, please contrast the Size Chart in the picture 6th before order.
- Touch Screen Work Gloves: With 3 Touch screen compatible fingertips capable for your phone or tablet without having to take the gloves off.
- Terry Cloth On The Thumb: More convenient to wipe your face and sweat away while staying focused on the task at hand.
3. Charcoal or Cinnamon Powder
That’s right, you will need either charcoal or cinnamon plant powder. Both will be beneficial to the plant because they serve as a type of healer, which will help the plant heal quickly after pruning. It will also help fight any pests and ensure new root growth. Learn more about Cinnamon for Plants.
4. Substrate for Orchids
You should check what type of orchid you have at home, to choose a substrate that contains the nutrients and properties that each one needs. Always use quality substrate, this will favor the plant. Learn more about Best Soil for Orchids.
- 💓 ALL PURPOSE MIX — Made with Charcoal, Sponge Rock, Pine Bark, Coconut Chips
- 🔗 ROOTS CAN CLIMB — Orchid Roots love to climb and expand, this textured mix allows them to stretch to their full potential
- 🌬 AERATION — Mix does not compact or suffocate orchid roots
When to Prune Orchids?
Many people wonder when to prune orchids. Below, we will explain when is the right time to do it:
The perfect time to prune orchids is after flowering. This can occur once or twice a year approximately. This is the time when the orchid comes to rest. So, pruning will help strengthen it and prepare it for the next bloom to come.
Another way to determine when it is time to prune orchids is to look at whether the stem is healthy or diseased. How is this determined? If the stem of the orchid is green it means that it is healthy, but if you notice a yellow color you should prune it, and even repotting it is recommended.
How to Prune Orchids?
But how to prune orchids, very easy. The first thing to do is to cut any yellow stems or leaves and it should be done from the base. Since they do not bring any benefit to the orchid and we will be doing it a favor.
In addition, for healthy stems, simply tie a knot under the last flower to make them stronger. Finally, it is recommended to add a little substrate to the plant. Next, we will mention how the correct pruning of leaves, roots, and flower stems should be done.
Pruning The Roots of An Orchid – When and How to Do It
The roots are one of the most important parts of the plant, the correct flowering of the plant depends on it. That is why they should not be neglected and should be pruned. The first thing to do is to take it out of the pot, this way you will be able to better appreciate the roots that are damaged. You should simply cut them by handling the orchid carefully. The right time to do this is if you see brown or black roots, which means that they are damaged.
Pruning The Leaves of An Orchid – When and How to Do It
Generally, when orchid leaves are yellow, it means that they probably have a fungus and it is time to prune them so that they do not affect the whole plant. Take advantage and remove all the leaves that are withered and do not forget to apply fertilizer and repotting it if necessary.
Pruning Orchid Flower Stems
Finally, we will explain how to prune orchid canes. Pruning the flowering canes is usually done to bring them back into bloom. In case the flowering cane is dry, it should be cut from the base, this will make it bloom healthy and give great results. But in case the flowering cane keeps its green color, we will simply cut a few inches (centimeters) to help its growth process.
How to Prune the Most Common Orchids Species Step by Step
Now that you know how to prune orchids, we will explain how to prune orchids at home but in the most common species:
How to Prune Phalaenopsis Orchids
Phalaenopsis orchids are called moth orchids. They are the ones that are usually kept at home since they are easy to grow. Pruning should be done when the leaves or roots are dry or damaged and after flowering. The pruning procedure described above is used.
How to Prune Dendrobium Orchids
Dendrobium orchids are characterized by their large size and are one of the most sought-after species. Pruning this type of orchid should only be done to remove dry or damaged leaves and stems, including dried flowers, following the steps described above.
How to Prune Venus Slipper Orchids
Venus orchids are a species of yellow orchids that are attractive and have limited production. Therefore, it is important to take proper care of them. Pruning Venus orchids should be done when we see the stems and leaves in poor condition to strengthen their next bloom.
How to Prune Mini Orchids
Finally, we have the mini orchids which are a kind of stunted plant, and pruning them is similar to the other orchid species. These are more delicate, the yellow or brown spines must be cut above the lower node and it is advisable to remove all the roots in bad condition.
In conclusion, orchid pruning is important to strengthen the flowering and growth of the orchid. Regardless of the species, you have at home, you must perform the pruning steps mentioned above to perform a correct technique and not harm your plant. Also, use all the necessary pruning tools and start taking care of your orchids.
Finally, I hope this article on how to prune orchids step by step at home has been of great help to you. You begin to take care of your plant to get the desired blooms. It is a simple process and it won’t take you much time.
