Is My Orchid Dead?

Caring for Your Orchid when its Flowers Fall Off

Healthy orchid with flowers that have expired

Most orchid flowers can last from weeks to months depending on the type of orchid. Eventually, however, just as with other plants, orchid flowers do expire. When this happens, we are often asked, “Is my orchid dead? Can I do anything to save it?”

All orchid flowers will eventually dry up and fall off the flower stem, also called an inflorescence. This is completely normal.

When orchid flowers die, cut off the stem between its first and second nodes to encourage new growth.

Simply use sterilized scissors or another sharp cutting tool to cut the flower stem off between its first and second node, leaving a stem that is about one to three inches long.

The old flower stem will eventually dry out and turn brown, and this is normal.

You may hear some say to leave a longer stem in place and instead cut just below the node where the original flowers grew, with the thought that doing so encourages a new shoot to grow from there. However, this usually results in fewer flowers and smaller flowers than those that emerge from a new flower spike from the base of the plant.

Cutting the stem off between the first and second nodes encourages the plant to put its energy into growing a new spike. As part of its growth, the oldest one or two leaves on the plant will eventually turn yellow and fall off. This too is normal and indicates that growth is happening. You will soon see a new leaf begin to grow, and you may also see new roots growing between or underneath the leaves.

During this time, keep the orchid in a bright place where you can enjoy its foliage. Look out for new growth each time you water it. Patience and regular watering over time will eventually reward you with a new flower spike.

Photos courtesy of Cathleen Daghestani