Do I cut?

[Hstb7]

I have an Amy Chen orchid. It blooms once a year but I have left over "stumps" from leaves that have yellowed and died. Do I cut these down? Please see picture.

[Roberta]

First, Welcome!

Don't cut! Those old leafless, but plump and green, pseudobulbs are the reserves that the plant will need for new growth. Once they are fully dry those brown sheaths on the outside of the pseudobulbs can be gently removed... only when they come off easily. It they stick, they aren't fully dry. Don't rush it. The plant looks like it could use repotting, but wait until you see new growth and especially, new roots (probably in a couple of months, as spring approaches.)

[Hstb7]

Thank you! I have looked on so many sites to find an answer. Hooray!

[estación seca]

Welcome to the Orchid Board!

[dbarron]

Basically it isn't dead till it comes off by itself (rotten). Don't be in a hurry to trim ANY orchid.

In nature there are no scissors and the orchids are just fine with that.