The orchid has bloomed: what to do next?

A home orchid is a stunning decorative plant that can delight with its bright and beautiful flowers for several months. But what should you do when the orchid has finished blooming? How should you care for the flower spike and stems to ensure the plant remains healthy and blooms again? In this article, we will explain what steps to take after your orchid has finished flowering and how to care for it properly.

What to do with the flower spike after the orchid blooms?

When the orchid has finished blooming, many plant owners wonder what to do with the flower spike or stem. The flower spike is the stem on which the flowers bloom. Knowing how to manage it is crucial for the plant's future growth and its ability to bloom again.

Should you cut the spent flower spike?

After the orchid has finished blooming, assess the condition of the flower spike:

• Healthy and green flower spike: if the flower spike remains green and firm, leave it. New flowers or side branches may develop from it.
• Dry and brown flower spike: if the flower spike dries out and turns brown, it is better to remove it. This prevents the plant from wasting energy on an unproductive stem.

How to cut the spike:

• Use sharp, sterilized scissors or pruning shears.
• Cut the spent spike 1–2 cm above a dormant bud or at the base if the entire spike is dry.
• Make a clean cut to avoid damaging the plant and reduce the risk of infection.

Caring for the orchid after it blooms

Proper care after blooming ensures the orchid’s future growth and prepares it for the next blooming cycle. Here are some key steps:

1. Watering: reduce watering frequency after flowering. Water the plant when the substrate dries out, typically every 1–2 weeks, avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot.
2. Fertilizing: during the rest period, the orchid requires fewer nutrients. Use a special orchid fertilizer with low nitrogen content to support the plant without promoting excessive growth.
3. Repotting: repot the orchid if its roots start escaping from the pot, the substrate breaks down, or a foul odor develops. Repotting is recommended every 2–3 years, preferably after flowering when the plant is dormant.
4. Lighting and temperature: provide ample light, but avoid direct sunlight that can scorch the leaves. Moderate temperatures with cooler nights encourage the development of new flower buds.

Why do orchids stop blooming quickly?

Orchids may stop blooming prematurely due to various factors related to care and environmental conditions:

1. Incorrect watering
   • Overwatering: excessive watering causes root rot, weakening the plant and causing flowers to wilt quickly.
   • Underwatering: a dry substrate can lead to dehydration, causing the flowers to drop prematurely.

Solution: water the orchid when the substrate is dry, and avoid water stagnation.

1. Low humidity
   • Orchids, especially phalaenopsis, require air humidity of 60–80%. Dry air leads to bud drop and short blooming periods.

Solution: use a humidifier, trays with wet pebbles, or mist the leaves regularly.

1. Lack of light
   • Insufficient bright, indirect light prevents proper flower development and shortens the blooming period.

Solution: place the orchid near an east- or west-facing window or use grow lights during winter.

1. Temperature fluctuations
   • Temperature swings, drafts, or proximity to heat sources can cause flowers to drop prematurely.

Solution: maintain a stable temperature of +18…+25°c during the day and +15…+18°c at night. Avoid drafts and keep the orchid away from heating elements.

1. Lack of fertilization
   • A lack of nutrients weakens the plant, shortening the flowering period.

Solution: during active growth and flowering, apply orchid fertilizer with an npk ratio of 10:20:20 every 2–3 weeks.

1. Stress from repotting or relocation
   • Environmental changes, such as repotting or moving the plant, can cause stress, leading to flower loss.

Solution: allow the orchid to adapt to its new environment while providing optimal care conditions.

1. Natural blooming cycle
   • Orchids typically bloom for 2–6 months, depending on the species. After that, flowers wilt naturally.

Solution: cut the flower spike after it dries out completely and continue proper care to encourage new blooms.

What to Do with a Dry Orchid Flower Spike?

If your orchid's flower spike has dried out, proper care is essential to stimulate future growth and potential blooming. Here’s a detailed action plan:

1. Evaluate the Condition of the Flower Spike

• Fully Dried Flower Spike:
  If the spike has turned brown, dry, and brittle, it will no longer produce flowers.
• Partially Dried Flower Spike:
  If only part of the spike has dried out, the remaining green portion may develop side shoots or new flower buds.

2. Pruning the Flower Spike

For a Fully Dry Flower Spike:

• Cut it off completely at the base, leaving 1–2 cm above the rosette or pseudobulb.
• Use sharp, sterilized scissors or pruning shears.
• Treat the cut with crushed charcoal, cinnamon, or a specialized plant antiseptic.

For a Partially Dry Flower Spike:

• Trim the dried portion down to the first healthy bud.
• Leave 1–2 cm above the bud to prevent further drying out.
• To encourage blooming, consider applying cytokinin paste to the bud (only during the active growth period).

3. Post-Pruning Care

Provide optimal conditions for your orchid:

• Lighting: Bright, indirect light without direct sun exposure.
• Watering: Water regularly but avoid water stagnation.
• Fertilization: Use specialized orchid fertilizers every 2–3 weeks during the growth period.
• Temperature: Maintain a daytime temperature of +18…+25°C and a nighttime temperature of +15…+18°C.

4. Preventive Measures

• Follow a Proper Watering Schedule: Overwatering often leads to root rot and dried flower spikes.
• Monitor Humidity: Keep the air humidity level between 60% and 80%.
• Refresh the Substrate: Repot the orchid every 2–3 years, using fresh, well-draining substrate.

Conclusion

Proper care after flowering is essential for maintaining the orchid's health and preparing it for its next blooming cycle. Whether to cut the flower spike or not depends on its condition. By ensuring optimal care, you can enjoy the beauty of your orchid for years to come, transforming your home into a tropical paradise.