Pruning guide
How to prune catasetum expansum
Best time
Post-bloom and at start of dry dormancy
How often
Once per growing cycle
Technique
Snip spent spikes cleanly at the base using sterilised scissors. Remove dead foliage by hand or with clean cuts. Avoid cutting into live rhizome or plump pseudobulb tissue.
More catasetum expansum care
Pruning catasetum expansum — FAQ
When should I prune catasetum expansum?
Post-bloom and at start of dry dormancy. Snip spent spikes cleanly at the base using sterilised scissors. Remove dead foliage by hand or with clean cuts. Avoid cutting into live rhizome or plump pseudobulb tissue.
How often does catasetum expansum need pruning?
Once per growing cycle. Catasetum expansum needs pruning only to remove spent flower spikes and dead tissue. Cut the spike to the base after flowers fade. During dry dormancy, remove yellowed leaves and any fully shrivelled pseudobulbs. Healthy pseudobulbs — even leafless — should stay on the plant as energy reserves.
How do you prune catasetum expansum?
Snip spent spikes cleanly at the base using sterilised scissors. Remove dead foliage by hand or with clean cuts. Avoid cutting into live rhizome or plump pseudobulb tissue.