Orchids have become a staple houseplant thanks to their striking appearance, diverse varieties and ability to bloom for months with minimal space requirements. Their elegant flowers and architectural stems add a touch of sophistication to windowsills and shelves. Of the many types available, moth orchids (Phalaenopsis) are by far the most popular in the UK due to their resilient nature, long-lasting blooms and adaptability to indoor conditions. But they come with the same drawback as many orchid types: unpredictable flowering.
Unlike some houseplants that flourish with little care, orchids benefit from targeted attention—particularly when it comes to pruning. Gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh explains that with proper technique and timing, these plants can produce spectacular displays again and again.
Orchids do not all follow a strict seasonal calendar; their growth cycles can vary widely by type and even by individual plant.
Marc Hachadourian, an orchid expert, advises that the best time to trim, repot or divide your orchid is when it shows signs of active root and leaf growth—not before or during flowering.
Trimming or disturbing the plant while it is in bloom can shorten flower life and set back future growth. So when should you prune orchids?
Alan Titchmarsh notes that moth orchids, known for their long-lasting blooms, broad, fleshy leaves, and distinctive moth-like flower shape, should be trimmed sparingly after flowering
In an episode of Gardeners’ World, the green-fingered maestro urged orchid owners to resist the urge to cut stems back at the base immediately after flowering.
He said: “The temptation is to whip the stems off now that the flowers are gone, right at the bottom… don’t you dare!”
“If you look down the stem, you’ll see scales [or nodules] every so often. They’re surrounding buds, and if you only cut back to where the stem has died as little, without going any further than that, then other stems can grow.”
Following this simple rule gives the plant its best chance to re-bloom, but cutting further removes the potential for new flower spikes.
However, there is an exception. If an entire stem has turned yellow or brown on your orchid, it’s safe to remove it at the base, as it will not flower again.
If you are unsure when your orchid will flower, it’s worth tracking its growth habits.
Watch closely for new roots and leaves—these signal the ideal moment for trimming or dividing. As every orchid can behave differently throughout the year, learning from observation is key.
According to the Orchid Society of Great Britain, you can expect your moth orchid to spike again when you notice the temperature drop in early autumn (September).
Blooms can potentially be induced by moving the plant to a colder place in your house, regardless of season, for two to three weeks, then putting it back in its usual, warmer spot.