---
title: "Anyone know how to identity what “buds” are viable and where I should…"
description: "Anyone know how to identity what “buds” are viable and where I should cut my losses."
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/JmTUi1iSQr6-tX35luAMXQ/64e8fceb210f66d1ac4424fa"
community: "The Orchid Oasis"
author: "Zan~ Anxious Planter"
published: "2023-08-25T19:11:39.5Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/exEOBqZZu4GtDd44UUer0yUCydLrRmbjBiCMYYm8Mzw/da72593dd7904f989582454cb1ba10b0.webp?size=large"
---

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# Anyone know how to identity what “buds” are viable and where I should…

_Posted by Zan~ Anxious Planter on 2023-08-25_

Anyone know how to identity what “buds” are viable and where I should cut my losses.

![Attachment 1 of 1](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/exEOBqZZu4GtDd44UUer0yUCydLrRmbjBiCMYYm8Mzw/da72593dd7904f989582454cb1ba10b0.webp?size=large)

## 6 comments

### MeasomerPi commented on 2023-08-25

Any node that has already produced a bloom will not do so again. I would clip just above the topmost inactive node.

Keep in mind, encouraging a second bloom can reduce the number produced next year.

Good luck!

#### Zan~ Anxious Planter replied on 2023-08-25

Im struggling to truly identify I have some that look like inactive buds and one thats somewhat green so I’m not sure honestly might just cut it short haha

#### MeasomerPi replied on 2023-08-26

I don’t see any viable nodes in your photo if that helps.

#### MargaretYakoda replied on 2023-08-26

It doesn’t hurt to just leave the branches as far as I know.  
If they turn brown you’ll know for sure that they’re done.

### Overeager Orchids commented on 2023-08-25

I’m pretty sure the ones that are folded can still produce blooms. Don’t trust me in this, but if you use your nail to peel down just a tiny bit the folded part and there is a little green bud growing, that will for sure produce a bloom. Don’t trust me, but look up MissOrchidGirl’s YouTube video on what to do after blooms fall. It’s called “orchid care for beginners -what to do after phalenopsis blooms fall? Cutting spike and aftercare” that worked for me.

### Leafmealone commented on 2023-08-26

Green nodes can bloom but the browned ones will not

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