| It is wise to sterilize your tool before cutting if there is any possibility that the stem is still alive. If it has turned brown where you will cut, it doesn't matter. Use heat to sterilize, not alcohol. You can also use a bleach solution, 10% or better to soak the tool for awhile to sterilize. I use a saturated solution of TSP (some powder remains at bottom), the real one with phosphate, not the brand named one that does not contain Phosphate these days. I keep a few shears in this liquid constantly soaking ready for use.
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Cynthia
Prescott Orchid Society  |