The cut of terrestrial orchids plays a subordinate role in the round of care measures. However, the terrestrial orchids cannot do entirely without the use of scissors. These instructions explain how to properly cut orchids and other garden orchids.

During the flowering period, keep your hands off terrestrial orchids

Clean up in the middle of the season - Here's how to do it without a cut

All orchid species do not want to be bothered with scissors during the flowering and growth period. Terrestrial orchids are no exception in this respect. The noble plants get rid of their withered flowers and dead leaves on their own. You are only allowed to help a little with your fingers. If a withered flower just doesn't want to fall to the ground, pluck it off. If a withered leaf yields to a slight tug, the garden orchid is willing to let you twist it out.

Cut and winter protection go hand in hand

Terrestrial orchids only get their pruning as part of the preparations for winter. This applies both to the field and to the windowsill. How to do it right:

  • Cut a terrestrial orchid close to the ground before the onset of winter
  • Do not leave the clippings in the bed to protect against diseases and pests
  • Do not cut until all parts of the plant have fully retracted
  • Use freshly sharpened and carefully disinfected cutting tools

At this point, terrestrial orchids have already created the shoots and buds for the next season below the surface of the earth. In order to protect this valuable asset from frost and snow, please spread out a mulch layer of beech or oak leaves fixed with needle brushwood after pruning. After cutting, potted terrestrial orchids move to a winter quarter that is not too dark and frost-free.

tips

Multiply the breathtaking lady's slipper orchids (Cypripedium) outdoors by dividing them extra gently, without any cutting. To do this, dig out the eyrie in autumn and clean it thoroughly with a jet of water. Bend the root network back and forth with both hands until the individual parts come loose by themselves. Immediately plant the segments in the ground at the new location.

Category:

Vegetable garden