How to Look After Orchids

It's important to know how to prune orchids in order to keep them looking fresh. For best results, prune them regularly to get rid of any dead stems. Look for brown and yellow stems, then cut them off as close to the bottom as possible.

If you have healthy stems but would like a second flush of flowers, we recommend locating the lowest flower scar on the stem, then making a small cut about one-to-two centimeters above it to encourage the plant to branch out and create more flowers. A more drastic alternative is to cut the whole stem off at the base. Although this is a more time-consuming method, it will allow the plant time to recharge and result in a longer, more fruitful result.

Our expert tip: make sure that the shears you're using are sterilised with rubbing alcohol or a flame. This will avoid any bacteria spreading.

Root rot: this is caused by overwatering or lack of drainage. Make sure to unpot your plant, cut off any black or mushy roots and repot with fresh, airy bark in a better pot.

Wrinkled or limp leaves: most likely caused by dehydration. Start by checking the roots and removing any dead ones. Then, make sure you're soaking thoroughly when watering.

Yellowing leaves: if it's the lowest, oldest leaf then you don't need to worry as it's most likely its natural life cycle. However, if multiple top leaves have turned yellow, then your plant is probably receiving too much direct sunlight. Move to a different position.

Plant won't rebloom: orchids require a small temperature drop at night to stimulate flower growth. Move yours into a cooler room – around 15°C is perfect – for a few weeks in the autumn.