Sterilize sharp pruning shears or scissors
Remove dead, yellow, or brown flower spikes at the base
Cut spent flower spikes above a healthy node if the spike is still green
Trim damaged, black, or mushy roots from the orchid
Remove dry, shriveled, or rotting leaves only if they come off easily
Cut back old pseudobulbs only after they are fully dried out
Make clean cuts without tearing the plant tissue
Avoid cutting healthy green roots and leaves
Use cinnamon or another fungicide on cut areas if needed
Repot the orchid after cutting roots if the potting mix is old or broken down