Orchids As Cut Flowers

Orchids have become valentine favorites, both as potted plants and as cut flowers. Potted plants, however, can inspire worries about their care. Cut orchid flowers have the same beauty and elegance without the worry. As cut flowers, orchids make the perfect valentine gift.

Moth Orchid, Phalaenopsis hybrid, Pacific Orchid Expo 2013, San FranciscoPaphiopedilum, Pacific Orchid Expo 2013, San Francisco, Lady Slipper orchid close upCymbidium Winter Fire 'Splash', Pacific Orchid Expo 2010, San Francisco

Phals, CattleyasCymbidiums, Dendrobiums, Oncidiums, and Paphs are often sold as cut flowers. Many types have sturdy blooms which can last for weeks. Fragrant Cattleyas and Oncidiums can even keep their scents after they’re cut.

When buying cut flowers, blossoms should appear fresh. If they’re already brown or wilted, they won’t live much longer. Closed buds should eventually open unless they are too small. Even if they do not mature and open, they still add interest to the display.

Oncidium Moon Shadow 'Tiger Tail', Orchids in the Park 2013, San FranciscoDendrobium hybrid flowers, Orchids in the Park 2013, San FranciscoCattleya flower, Kawamoto Orchid Nursery, Honolulu, Hawaii 2013

Follow these tips to help cut flowers last longer:

  • Once at home, re-cut the flower stems. Make clean, angled cuts to take one half inch (1.3 cm) off the bottoms.
  • Place them in a vase with lukewarm water.
  • Blooms last longest in clean water, so change it every other day. Remove any leaves or flowers which are submerged.
  • Keep the vase in a cool area out of direct sun.
  • Orchids don’t like dry air, so it helps to have high humidity.
  • There’s no need to add fertilizer.

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5 Comments on “Orchids As Cut Flowers”

  1. CJ Says:

    wonderful pics
    thanks aboutorchids

  2. Brian Banks Says:

    whoah this blog is great i really like reading your articles. Keep up the great work!

  3. AboutOrchids » Blog Archive » Caring for a Valentine Orchid Says:

    […] Cut orchid flowers – Give orchids the same care as other cut flowers. […]

  4. Nancy Says:

    Question: I was told to water my orchid by placing 3 ice cubes around the soil and let them melt in once a week. is that right?

  5. Marc Says:

    Hi Nancy. I’ve blogged my thoughts about watering orchids with ice before here. My answer is that it’s not a good idea. Use room temperature water instead.