It is believed that one of the most demanding and moody in matters of growing a flower is an orchid. Despite this, the popularity of the magnificent plant is increasing every day due to its lush, plentiful, bright flowering.
Until now, only a few flower growers and lovers of phalaenopsis, cymbidiums and cattleya know how to plant an orchid correctly at home. There are several ways to propagate these indoor flowers, which we will discuss in the article.
How to plant an orchid at home by dividing the rhizome?
The most convenient, simple and at the same time effective method of propagation is the vegetative method, which involves dividing the rhizome of the mother plant into parts. Obtained by division, the specimens are well received, quickly gain mass and bloom after a short period of time. Moreover, it is also wonderful that the new orchids are genetically equal to the mother flower. This type of propagation is suitable for orchids with a sympodial growth form, for example, for Cattleya, Lelia, Dendrobium, Oncidium, Miltonia and other representatives of this group.
In order to correctly divide, choose an adult well-grown, strong plant. The operation is performed in early spring. How to plant an orchid at home? It is carefully pulled out of the pot and the roots are cleaned of the old substrate. Take a sharp knife, disinfect it and then cut the rhizome right through, between the false bulbs. All places of the cuts are treated with chopped charcoal, which helps to prevent the development of diseases and decay of the roots. The resulting orchid fragments are planted in new containers and carefully taken care of dividends. Tip: if you see that the young plant is weakened, you can put it in an insulator with high humidity for some time or cover it with a plastic bag.
How to plant an orchid at home by dividing the stem?
In addition to dividing the rhizome, at home, you can easily propagate your favorite orchid and dividing the stem - that is, cuttings. This method of vegetative breeding is suitable for monopodial fast-growing
orchids (vanda, dendrobium, etc.). In order to get good cuttings, it is necessary to carefully cut off the upper part of the stem and place it in a prepared nutrient substrate. The main thing - do not place the twig vertically, you just need to put it on the moss. Only after the appearance of the roots can the stalk be placed vertically in the seedling container. In addition to rooting the stem, you can try to lead it. To do this, choose the longest stem of the orchid, bend it to a nearby pot, filled with a good soil mixture, and strengthen it. After a while, the stem will give roots, and it can be separated from the mother liquor.
Learn how to plant an orchid at home with kids
Another simple method of
propagation of orchids is the rooting of lateral shoots - children. That is how phalaenopsis is bred. In order for children to appear on the orchid, it is placed in a moist, warm place, it is often sprayed and fed with nitrogen fertilizers. With proper care, children will certainly grow and gradually grow stronger. Then they can be cut off from the mother plant and transplanted into separate pots. Do not forget about the processing of places of cuts with charcoal powder. In fact, there is no particular difficulty in breeding by side shoots, the main thing is to carefully care for the plant. After planting, it is advisable to place a young orchid in a greenhouse and maintain high air humidity (from 80% and above). Now you know how to plant Phalaenopsis orchids. Show patience and attention to your colors, and you will surely succeed in enriching your home collection with new healthy and beautiful specimens!