Phalaenopsis Orchid: keiki propagation
Quick answer
keiki propagation for Phalaenopsis Orchid: Keiki (Hawaiian for 'little one') are baby orchids that can develop from nodes along a Phalaenopsis flower spike after the flowers have dropped. Keiki formation is a form of asexual reproduction where the orchid produces a complete miniature plant with its own roots, stems, and leaves. This typically occurs when the mother plant is very healthy, when the spike is cut too low, or due to environmental factors that trigger backup reproduction strategies.
Start here:
- 1. Keiki develop at nodes (swollen bumps) along the flower spike, usually after flowers drop
- 2. Keiki paste (containing cytokinin hormone) can be applied to a node to stimulate keiki growth
Why keiki propagation matters for Phalaenopsis Orchid
Keiki (Hawaiian for 'little one') are baby orchids that can develop from nodes along a Phalaenopsis flower spike after the flowers have dropped. Keiki formation is a form of asexual reproduction where the orchid produces a complete miniature plant with its own roots, stems, and leaves. This typically occurs when the mother plant is very healthy, when the spike is cut too low, or due to environmental factors that trigger backup reproduction strategies.
How to handle keiki propagation on Phalaenopsis Orchid
- 1
Keiki develop at nodes (swollen bumps) along the flower spike, usually after flowers drop
- 2
Keiki paste (containing cytokinin hormone) can be applied to a node to stimulate keiki growth
- 3
Allow keiki to develop until roots are 2-3 inches long and it has 3-4 leaves before separating
- 4
To remove keiki: cut the spike 1-2 inches above and below the keiki, preserving its root system
- 5
Pot keiki in small container (2-3 inch) with coarse orchid bark; water sparingly until established
- 6
Keiki can remain attached to mother plant for months, developing alongside it
- 7
Signs of keiki readiness for separation: roots 2-3 inches with multiple branches, 3-4 leaves each 2-3 inches long
- 8
Keiki planted in fresh bark in own pot will grow into a mature orchid over 2-3 years
Keeping Phalaenopsis Orchid on track
Maintain optimal orchid health to encourage natural keiki development; hormone paste (keiki paste) can be applied to nodes to encourage keiki formation.