We totally get it. Growing orchids can seem tricky and complicated, and we know that many people have a hard time with their propagation. But, don’t fret because we have great news for you. You can enjoy your new orchids without even leaving the house! How? You can grow them yourself!
Usually orchids bought in florists are propagated by cloning, a procedure that is impossible to do at home. Therefore, you should be interested in another method – avoid seeding, which is time-consuming, and, instead, use faster techniques.
How to propagate an orchid from a leaf?
Growing plants from a leaf is popular, especially for succulents, but it also works well for orchids. The most important thing is to precisely cut off a piece of the plant, which ensures healthy growth of the new orchid. All tools used during this process must be sterile, so that young plants are not exposed to infection.
To propagate an orchid, you need a scalpel, available in pharmacies and medical stores. You can buy it for about 20 zlotys (and a disposable one for as little as five zlotys). In addition, it is a good idea to have on hand fertilizer and activated charcoal to promote root development.
How to propagate an orchid? Instructions
The key step is to detach the leaf from the stem with a scalpel so that the fragment contains a piece of the stem. The leaf itself will not produce roots without a growth point. The severed stem fragment should dry overnight to form a membrane, which should be soaked in root-supporting fertilizer in the morning.
Then prepare a solution of activated carbon by dissolving one tablet in half a glass of water. Dip the leaf in it. When new roots appear, transplant the orchid into a pot. Water the freshly transplanted plant only after three days to avoid overwatering.
