Wherever Phalaenopsis orchids set the scene on the windowsill with their magnificent blossoms, passers-by stop in amazement. When the flowers have withered, the exotic plant with sparse, green shoots has apparently become obsolete and goes to the compost. In fact, it only requires the right care for the flower spectacle to be repeated. Find out how here.

Orchid shoots should not be cut off while they are still green

Do not cut shoots while they are green

When all the withered flowers have fallen off, the Phalaenopsis orchid gathers new strength in its shoots for the next flowering period. Therefore, please do not be tempted to cut off green leaves or stems. The butterfly orchid in particular tends to produce fresh branches with buds on a faded shoot. Therefore, only cut off the stems and leaves when they are completely dead.

Caring for flowerless shoots properly - this is how it works

If a Phalaenopsis has lost its furious flower aspect, the care of the green shoots comes into focus. By modifying the care program a little, you can skilfully prepare for the next flowering period. How to do it right:

  • From the third week without flowers, move the orchid to a bright, cooler location with 16-18 degrees Celsius
  • Water more sparingly and mist every few days
  • Stop the nutrient supply completely or just fertilize every 8 weeks

If the aerial roots protrude beyond the edge of the pot, now is the ideal time to repot the orchid. In the midst of flowering, this stressful procedure often causes bud and flower shedding. If your Phalaenopsis only has its green shoots and leaves, it can easily cope with the change to fresh substrate and a larger pot.

tips

Dendrobium phalaenopsis and Dendrobium nobile sometimes tend to shed all their leaves after flowering. This is no cause for alarm. In this case, do not cut off green shoots under any circumstances. Watered sparingly, sprayed every 2 days and treated with fertilizer every 4 weeks, you can soon look forward to new buds. A cool, bright location at 15 to 20 degrees Celsius has a beneficial effect.

Category:

Indoor plants