Horrors! My Owner is Holding Pruning Scissors!
Should it be pruned?
No! Especially important, don’t trim off those funny looking errant roots that may stray from the pot. That’s the source of food and moisture for it. Ultimately, the oldest parts of the plant will dry up and can be trimmed, but wait until you have read “Caring for Your First Orchid & More" with further instructions before you start that.
Aren’t they parasites?
No, they are not. A parasite gets its food from what it is growing on. The orchid however, often an aerophyte or air plant, just hangs on to where it is growing, whether it be a root, a tree, or a rock. They are commonly and incorrectly called “parasitos” in many Latin countries, but they are better described as epiphytes.
What is an air plant?
Many popular orchids, including the ones I am suggesting for you, are so-called air plants. They grow on various structures and their roots grow in the air from which they get their moisture (as rain or sprinkling) and food (dust, dead insects, bird droppings etc).
So......what about the others?
Many common wild orchids, however, are not air plants but rather are terrestrial, that is, they grow in rich moist soils. Many of these terrestrial plants in the United States should be treated as endangered species and left in the wild. Enjoy them there!
How soon will it bloom again?
Probably next year, but some plants are more prolific than that and will keep on making flowers through the year. Don’t EXPECT that bonus often, though.
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