Pruning Orchid "Stocks"? First, Know Your Type

You have orchids with yard-long "stocks," leggy bases, and want to prune/transplant. Stop. Identification comes first.

Critical Distinction

• Dendrobium: "Stocks" = canes (pseudobulbs). Never cut green canes. They store energy, may rebloom, produce keikis.
• Phalaenopsis: "Stocks" = flower spikes. Cut above 2nd–3rd node after bloom (if spike stays green) or at base (if dying back).
• Others (Cattleya, Oncidium, etc.): Totally different rules.

Leggy Base = Often Light Issue

"Not full at bottom" usually means insufficient light. Leaves should be light yellow-green, not dark green.

Next Steps

1. Check plant tags for names.
2. Send photos if no tags.
3. Then get specific pruning/repotting advice.

One size does not fit all. Know the genus, then act.