Do you cut the stems of orchids after they bloom?
After the flowers drop from the orchid you have three choices: leave the flower spike (or stem) intact, cut it back to a node, or remove it entirely. Removing the stem will direct the +plant’s energy toward root development, which makes for a healthier plant and increased chances for new bloom spikes.
Should you mist orchid blooms?
Misting gives the orchid more humidity but does not create a soggy root environment. It is best to put your orchid where it will receive medium indirect sunlight. To ensure bright blooms and a healthy plant, use a potting mixture and a fertilizer that is specifically designed for orchids.
What is the average life of an orchid?
With good care and regular maintenance, an orchid plant may live for a lifetime — 100 years, or more.
Do orchids grow new stems?
Orchids will grow new stems, fortunately. You can propagate a new Phalaenopsis or Vanda orchids from stem cuttings. Or you can divide a cattleya’s rhizomes. You can also expect a flower spike to grow back after cutting it down when its blooms die.
Do orchids outgrow their pots?
Orchid roots like air and will rot if kept soggy and wet. Moth orchids can outgrow their pots in about a year’s time as their wandering roots reach outside and above the edge of the containers. Mature plants usually flower from late winter into spring and their blossoms can last for several months.
How long does it take for an orchid to rebloom?
Temperature is an important, yet often undervalued, consideration to rebloom orchids. Most orchids will react to a temperature swing. For example, once a Phalaenopsis has finished blooming, set it in a cool spot to trigger re-blooming–about 60°F/15.5°C, for about three-four weeks.
Where does the next bloom spike come from on an orchid?
The next bloom spike on a monopodial orchid comes from the base at the underside of a leaf, usually 2 or 3 leaves down from the newest leaf and on the opposite side as the prior bloom spike. In order to keep blooming over the years, monopodial orchids such as Phalaenopsis need to put on new leaves each year.
How does a phalaenopsis orchid get to bloom?
Orchids are not heavy feeders, so don’t overfeed your plant, but they do benefit tremendously from fertilizer. Lastly, prepare for the bloom. Phalaenopsis orchids are triggered to bloom by temperature. A few cold nights are necessary to stimulate a flower spike.
How often do orchids bloom in the greenhouse?
Buying an orchid plant in bloom isn’t necessarily a sign of when the plant should bloom, as growers can induce bloom in the greenhouse by altering light and temperature. Identify your orchid, and then you can learn about its natural blooming cycle. Vanda orchids bloom two to three times a year, with each bloom cycle lasting up to six weeks.
