How to Cut Vanda Orchids

The vanda orchid family includes several varieties, and these tropical Asian beauties bloom in a number of colors and arrangements. When healthy and mature, a single plant may bloom two to three times in a single year, and each flower cluster may last two months or more. Like most orchids, vanda orchids require very little pruning. Clean them periodically after they've finished blooming to remove any dead plant material.

Pruning shears
Lighter

Instructions

- 1
  Sterilize your pruning shears over a flame for 15 seconds. Orchid viruses are most commonly transmitted through pruning shears used on multiple orchid plants. Fungal diseases and other pathogens also find easy access to orchids through infected shears. Sterilize your pruning shears after each cut. Make sure the shears are cool before using them on plant tissue.
- 2
  Prune dead leaves at their base once all of the green material dies back.
- 3
  Prune diseased leaves at their base. Vanda orchids are susceptible to a number of diseases. Most manifest themselves as discolored, dead, water-logged or moldy spots. To prevent further spread of disease, have the affected leave diagnosed at your local home and garden center. Then treat the orchid with the appropriate fungicide.
- 4
  Cut flower clusters off 1 inch into the main stem once all of the flowers have wilted and died.
- 5
  Cut stalks off at their base when they turn yellow or brown, indicating that they won't produce any more flowers.
- 6
  Prune any black, brown or mushy vanda roots at their base. Do not prune any green, plump, healthy-looking roots.

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