Cutting off leaf

[Helen]

Before I cut off a yellow bottom leaf on one of my Phals, I wanted to check on the correct way to do this.
Do you cut off very close to the stem? or leave some of the leaf as to not damage the stem/main trunk...sorry my terminology is not correct here. Or, do I leave it alone and let it shrivel off on it's own?
Thanks

[Tindomul]

I cut mine real close to the stem, without actually reaching the stem. I never thought to ask. Good question. DO NOT take my advice until someone else has chimmed in first.

[Helen]

Originally Posted by Tindomul1of9

I cut mine real close to the stem, without actually reaching the stem. I never thought to ask. Good question. DO NOT take my advice until someone else has chimmed in first.

Okay, I'll wait for other opinions.
Also, do you have to put anything on the cut edge?

I have read on this forum that people use cinnamon?
Can you tell me what cinnamon is used for exactly?
thx!

[Tindomul]

Yea, cinnamon will do it. I always use it freely. And I have to resist the urge to eat my orchid at that point. I need help

[smartie2000]

I would cut it off close to the stem using sterile scissors. Any extra bits should fall off soon anyways

[Charles]

Use powerdered cinnamon on the cut edges to avoid infection on the orchid. Put some on your finder and pack it into cut edge. You don't (can't, you'll see when you try it) want to use alot. A little will do.

When leaves are ready to come off, they will do so very easily. If you don't mind waiting, do that. It's always best to let the orchid do the deciding. Unless you are in a hurry before a show or some other event, wait.

[Helen]

You have the best sense of humour!!! THanks for the chuckles you give me everyday when I read your posts!
I'll try some of that cinnamon for myself!

[Helen]

Thanks Smartie, I needed other opinions!

[Helen]

Originally Posted by Charles

Use powerdered cinnamon on the cut edges to avoid infection on the orchid. Put some on your finder and pack it into cut edge. You don't (can't, you'll see when you try it) want to use alot. A little will do.

When leaves are ready to come off, they will do so very easily. If you don't mind waiting, do that. It's always best to let the orchid do the deciding. Unless you are in a hurry before a show or some other event, wait.

No, I'm not in a hurry, so basically it will dry up enough that it will peel right off? I think I'll wait....Do you still need to put cinnamon on the area once it's removed?
Thanks Charles....I appreciate your opinion.

[justatypn]

I prefer a well groomed collection so after a leaf is duly noted as dead I cut mine back to the stem with sterile scissors, no need to keep it attached if it no longer gets nutrients from the plant.