probably haven’t tried to propagate them and see how the smaller specimens grow.

There are several methods of propagating orchids, and almost all of them, if done correctly, allow us to reproduce our favorite plants almost continuously.

Orchids can be propagated by cuttings from a mother plant or a keiki. Below we explain how to do it.

Propagate orchids with the keiki

A keiki is a seedling that grows on the stem of an orchid and gives us a great opportunity to propagate it. The new plant is an exact replica of the mother plant, as it is produced by asexual propagation (without pollinators). The keiki are born naturally, but it is also possible to help the plant produce them, and below we explain how.

HOW TO MAKE A KEIKI FROM AN ORCHID

When the orchid has finished flowering, we need to cut off the flower stem just above the collar of the plant. We peel the “node” area lightly and proceed very carefully. In this way, it will remain in contact with the air and a keiki could be born.

HOW TO PLANT A KEIKI

When the keiki roots have reached a length of 4-5 centimeters, they can be transplanted. Plant keikis in the same pot as the mother plant so that both have the same growing conditions and moisture.

Cut the keiki about 3-5 from the stem of the flower and plant it in the same pot. The roots should point downwards and be lightly covered with soil. The piece of flower stem that we cut must also be buried. It can be folded into the soil like an anchor.

Once grown, the keiki can be separated from the mother plant with great care.

How to propagate orchids with cuttings

To cut the stem of the plant and remove the cuttings, we need a watertight container with a depth of about 8 centimeters. Fill it with sand or sphagnum, both well moistened.

1. Using a sharp knife, cut a stem about 30 centimeters from the mother plant. Divide it into several 7-centimeter sections and make sure that each cutting has a dormant bud.
2. Add moss or sand to the tray and moisten. Place the cuttings in the tray, cover them with plastic foil and store them in a place at 15 °C and protected from direct sunlight.
3. After a few weeks, you can increase the temperature to around 24-30 degrees. Remember to sprinkle water on the tray to keep it constantly moist, but don’t overdo it.
4. Once shoots and roots have formed, cut back the cutting with a sharp knife.
5. Get some small pots to plant the new seedlings in. Ideally, plant them in a mixture of bark, volcanic soil and well-moistened spagnum moss.
6. Plant the orchid with the buds pointing upwards.
7. Place the new orchids hatched with talers in a bright place, but not exposed to the sun.
8. Water regularly, but do not overdo it to prevent the plant from rotting.
9. Keep the plant in a humid environment and away from direct heat sources.