Orchid Propagation Techniques
Both an art and a science, orchid propagation techniques run the gamut from the simple bulb division to state-of-the-art replication through tissue culture. But can you propagate orchids at home without a PhD and lab equipment? Absolutely!
There are six orchid propagation techniques that are commonly used. Two of these methods are best left to the professionals in sterile lab conditions:
Seed: Orchid seeds are the size of a speck of dust, making it nearly impossible to handle under normal home or greenhouse conditions. Between the size of the seed and the need for completely sterile conditions, growing orchids from seed is best left to the professional growers.
Meristem Tissue Culture: It’s about as complicated as it sounds. Unlike many plants which can be propagated from cuttings using basic techniques, the orchid must have tissue cultures removed from the plant under completely sterile conditions and propagated in an autoclave or pressure cooker and specialty flasks. It’s not a method for beginners or the faint of heart!
With a little trial and error, there are other methods to propagate orchids that can be attempted under normal conditions by the novice. The simplest method is the good old perennial propagation method of division:
Division
When an orchid has outgrown its pot – divide and conquer. Rather than simply repotting, take the opportunity to divide the orchid. Not only will you have more orchids, but you stimulate new, vigorous shoots on the original plant.
The key to successful orchid propagation using division is using sterilized tools and surfaces. Many growers recommend Physan 20, a general purpose germicide which controls the disease spreading contaminants. The other key to success, make the largest division possible, as it’s the larger plants that produce the most flowers.
Back Bulbs
Orchid back bulbs are the older growth of the orchid that is normally removed during repotting. They can actually be repotted to propagate orchids, but it can take over three years for the orchid to flower. The length of time involved can make it seem to be an exercise in futility for all but the most patient of orchid growers.
Keikis
Keiki (pronounced kay-key) is the Hawaiian word for child, so it’s only fitting that it’s a method of orchid propagation. Keikis are produced by the common Moth Orchid as the little nodes along the stem. Once two or three leaves and roots are developed, it can be removed with a sterile blade and repotted. It can take up to six months between the keiki appearing and it being ready to be on its own in a separate pot.
Aerial Cuttings
Dendrobium orchids produce aerial shoots or bulbs on older growth. They take three to four months to develop roots and then can be detached and repotted. Aerial cuttings are usually a successful method of orchid propagation, as the plant is nearly full grown before being removed.
The Bottom Line
Orchid propagation is not normally a complex procedure for the more common and easy to grow varieties of orchids. The key to success in propagating orchids – patience, cleanliness and knowledge.
