Deadheading is a term commonly used in gardening meaning the removal of spent flowers, but for orchids, especially the popular Phalaenopsis, the process involves a strategic decision about the entire flower spike. After the last bloom drops, the remaining spike presents an opportunity to either encourage an immediate second set of flowers or allow the plant to enter a recovery phase. The choice of where to cut the spike redirects the plant’s stored energy, which determines its next stage of growth.
Determining the Status of the Flower Spike
The first step after the flowers have faded is to visually inspect the flower spike to determine its viability for reblooming. A spike that is still a healthy green color and firm to the touch contains active meristematic tissue and moisture. This means it has the potential to produce a secondary flower branch or plantlet (keiki). Leaving this green spike intact is a sign of an energetic, healthy plant that may sustain further flowering efforts.
In contrast, a spike that is turning yellow, brown, or is entirely brittle and dried out is fully spent and non-viable. The plant has already begun reabsorbing water and nutrients from this dead tissue, signaling that its flowering cycle is complete. A fully discolored spike no longer offers secondary blooms and should be removed to prevent pathogens and to tidy the plant. This visual assessment guides the grower toward the appropriate trimming technique.
Technique for Encouraging a Secondary Bloom
To stimulate a second flowering from a living, green spike, you must utilize the dormant nodes located along the stem. Nodes appear as small, slightly swollen, triangular bumps covered by a thin sheath of tissue. They contain meristem cells that can develop into new growth. This technique is most effective on robust, healthy Phalaenopsis orchids with strong root systems and multiple firm leaves, as producing a second bloom requires significant energy reserves.
Begin by sterilizing your cutting tool, such as sharp pruners or a razor blade, using rubbing alcohol or a 10% bleach solution to prevent the transmission of viruses or bacteria. Locate the second or third node counting up from the base of the plant where the spike emerges from the leaves. Make a clean, horizontal cut about one inch (two centimeters) above the chosen node. This signals the plant to activate the dormant bud, prompting a new flower spike or a small side branch, often resulting in smaller and fewer flowers.
Technique for Full Spike Removal and Plant Rest
When the orchid spike has turned completely yellow or brown, or if the plant is small or struggling, the best approach is to cut the entire spike off to encourage rest and renewed vegetative growth. This action redirects the plant’s energy away from maintaining the old spike and toward developing new leaves and roots. A stronger root and leaf system will support a more vigorous flower spike in the next blooming season.
After sterilizing your cutting tool, follow the spent spike down to the point where it emerges from the base of the plant. Make a clean cut at an angle, leaving a short stub of about one to two inches above the leaves. This remaining section ensures you do not damage the crown of the orchid, the central growing point. The plant will now focus its resources on producing new vegetative growth, a precursor to a strong, new flower spike.