How to Propagate Orchids - Hints for Success

Orchids are sturdy plants and can survive many mistakes

. However, when a new orchidologist looks at the prospect of propagating his or her prize plant they might break into a sweat. As they might until they get the orchid facts of life talk. It is normal to allow a mature plant to produce other orchids. This is part of the way orchids happen. Division is the word and methodology of creating new and more orchids. New orchid growers may think this is a massacre to the plant when it is not. Straightforward steps can help to make the procedure less intimidating.

First: let's determine the classification of the orchid. This does have an impact on the method to propagate orchids are either monopodial or sympodial. This is based on the way the plant enlarges in size. Monopodial growth is an increase in height. The plant develops in an upward fashion. Leaves develop in pairs and the placement on the stem is an alternating pattern. Sympodial plants have characteristics that the plant height stops after the first season. The next year's growth will come from the base of the plant. Pseudoblubs are common in this type.

Division of Monopodial plants can happen in different ways. Side shoots can be detached and potted when roots form. Aerial roots will form on tall plants and this part can be cut away and potted for a new plant. Flower or bloom spikes will form kiekis, sometimes called plantlets, and they too, can be removed when the floating roots reach an inch long. When potting these, it is an excellent idea to place the pots in an enclosed plastic creating a mini-greenhouse. This will help with keeping the new plant in a humid environment. This will encourage strong and rapid growth.

Divisions of Sympodial plants are divided like a bulb plant, similar to an iris. The need for a sharp blade to cut and separate the plant is how this is done. Please, make sure all of the tools you use when working on any of your plants are clean. Sterilized is a better choice of verbiage. An unclean tool can spread a plant disease as quick as anything. Don't defeat your success by not using clean tools. Also, if reusing an old pot for new plants, clean and dip into a bleach solution and let dry. Make cuts through the parent rhizome and leave three to five pseudoblubs with the cut. Pull apart the roots and clean away any dead or unhealthy plant material. Place into pots and add the correct amount of potting medium. Water completely and let drain. Always watch the new plants for signs of shock and treat as needed.

There are other forms of orchid propagation like seed starting and meristem cultures for plants. This is best left up to the professionals. Sterile lab conditions are needed to have success and this is not easy to do in a home environment. The basic methods of orchid plant propagation can be mastered by any home horticulturalist. Enjoy the experience and have happy healthy orchids.

Marty Lewis

How to Propagate Orchids - Hints for Success

By: Marty Lewis

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