How to prune hairy slipper orchid

After the flower fades, typically winter to spring. Cut the spent flower spike at the base with sterilised scissors. Remove dead or rotting leaves by pulling gently or cutting at the base. Never cut healthy green leaves.

As needed — once per bloom cycle for spikes, occasionally for dead foliage. Hairy Slipper Orchid (Paphiopedilum villosum) needs almost no pruning. Once the single flower has finished, cut the spike at its base close to the leaves using a sterilised blade. Remove any dead or brown leaves at the base as they appear. Unlike Cattleyas, Paphs have no pseudobulbs — every healthy leaf is vital.

Cut the spent flower spike at the base with sterilised scissors. Remove dead or rotting leaves by pulling gently or cutting at the base. Never cut healthy green leaves.