moth orchads

[herbie]

I have some beautifull plants but not sure where to cut stems back after flowering also can i take cuttings and when?

[andyjevs]

Moth orchids are usually from the genus Phaelonopsis. I have some in my cool conservatory that have been in full flower since February...i kid you not. After flowering, cut back the long stem as far down to the plant crown as possible...it is no longer needed as it has served its purpose. Feed the plants weekly with either a special orchid feed or a general purpose liquid food such as miracle grow. This should build the plant up for flowering next year (hopefully !) Orchids like to be very pot bound so do not pot on unless absolutely necessary. It is at this time that you can divide the plants. You can't actually take cuttings of most orchids (dendrobiums being one exception) but must be divided instead. Hope this helps a little and good luck with keeping them.

[linlam]

andy... when you say 'cut back the long stem, as far down to the crown as possible'....where is the crown?

I have a lovely orchid that I'd like to come back next year if possible..I don't know if it's a moth orchid though, does what you say apply to all orchids?