To cut or not to cut. That is the question!

[skepace]

So I have my first Spider Orchid, forgive me for not knowing the scientific name. It came with two spikes and blooms on them. So one has completely lost all its blooms but the other still has some. Do I cut the spike or leave it?

Thanks for the help!

[WhiteRabbit]

Can't be certain without a pic - but "spider orchid' to me is a Brassia
They do not rebloom on old spikes. For myself, I generally only cut spikes when they are brown and dead. They may be cut before that - make sure your cutters are clean, and perhaps dab some cinammon on the cut.

[skepace]

Cinnamon?

[Doc G]

Cinnamon is the household replacement for horticultural sulphur and powdered charcoal. It acts as a drying agent and mild anti-fungal. I've never felt the need to use any of these when the cut (wound) is above the level of the potting media, i.e. not being exposed to constant moist or wet conditions.

[skepace]

Thanks, still my question is open. Anyone?

[johnblagg]

It realy depends on the orchid john.

If it will rebloom on that spike or make a keiki I leave them and many do.If it will never rebloom on that stalk or produce a off set "Keiki" the cutting is simply astethics and up to you.....I myself leave them untill they turn brown and die unless they are getting in the way then I clip em off ....I find the less you cut on a plant the less likley you are to introduce any problems.

[dounoharm]

spider orchid is a brassia to my way of thinking.....and assuming such, i would cut the old spike off, as it will never rebloom or make keikis....just whack it off with clean scissors and it should be just fine....post a pic when you can!