How to get an orchid to flower again

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Saturday, 4 January 2020 at 5:08 pm

Discover how to get a phalaenopsis orchid to flower again, with these simple steps.

Save

Phalaenopsis orchids are cheap to buy and their flowers last for many weeks. Once the flowers have finally faded, it's tempting to discard your plant, but with a few simple tricks it's possible to make your orchid flower again, not only in a few months' time, but for many years to come.

Here are some simple steps to getting your orchid to flower again.

More of growing orchids:

How to care for orchids
How to grow phalaenopsis (moth orchids)

Wait until the flowers have dropped off

Once your orchid has flowered, you will be left with a flower spike from which most of the flowers have dropped. Don't be tempted to cut it right down to the base.

Orchid that has finished flowering

Cut back the stem to the nearest bud

Instead, once all the flowers have fallen, cut off the stem to just above a visible joint (node). This should stimulate the production of another flower stem over the next few months.

Cutting back to just above a bud

Cutting a finished flower spike to just above a bud

Alternatively, cut the spent flower spike down to the base

If no shoot appears and the original stem turns straw-coloured, remove it at the base. The plant should eventually produce a new, strong flower spike.

Cutting orchid flower spike to base

Removing a dead orchid flower stem at its base

Water correctly

Overwatering is the most common reason that orchids die. If your moth orchid has a transparent pot, look at the roots. Don't water if they are green - wait until they look silvery. Allow water to drain out the bottom of the pot - don't allow the plant to stand in water.

Water the orchid

Watering an orchid from a kitchen jug

Put it in a warm, bright spot

Orchids like bright but indirect light - too much direct sunlight will scorch the leaves. A spot near and east- or west-facing window is ideal. Orchids appreciate high humidity, so you could stand your plant on a tray of moist pebbles - the roots absorb moisture from the atmosphere.

Place your orchid correctlyv

Pink phalaenopsis in flower

Still no flowers?

This might be due to the following reasons:

Lack of light
Not enough food
Temperature fluctuations
The plant may need repotting

Don't miss out this Winter

Enjoy expert advice on what to plant and grow this winter, and how to prepare your plot for the year ahead. Enjoy, 6 months for just £31.99

Subscribe now

Great gardening savings - straight to your inbox

Sign up to the BBC Gardeners’ World offers newsletter for exclusive deals, seasonal savings, and early access to special promotions.