Rotted back bulbs - should they be cut?

[kp53]

I have several orchids that I have overwatered and the back bulbs are turning brown and shriveled. Should I cut them off. The rest of the back bulbs look okay.

[CTB]

Whoa! What type of orchid are you talking about? Overwatered bulbs turns mushy and soft. Healthy back bulbs turn brown and still retain moisture and nourishment for the orchid.
Do You have a pic? Back bulbs will usually sprout if replanted when removed when you repot. An orchid usually needs three good bulbs before you remove any old ones. They aren't very pretty but they are doing a job.

[Cym Ladye]

Originally Posted by kp53

I have several orchids that I have overwatered and the back bulbs are turning brown and shriveled. Should I cut them off. The rest of the back bulbs look okay.

KP53,

Brown and shriveled is somewhat OK, but definitely not good as it means that all the nutrients are being sucked out because of less than efficient roots. Watch the watering and if these BB's start to feel soft or smell rotten, the easiest thing to do is just split them open, top to bottom and treat with cinnamon but leave them on the plant for the time being. Come spring, you may have to consider repotting the plant, depending on how long it has been in the pot, how many leafless bulbs you have and how full it is in the pot.

Good luck,

CL