How to Plant Dendrobium Officinale Stems
Dendrobium officinale, as a rare medicinal plant, stem cutting is an important method for its efficient propagation. Compared to seed propagation, cutting has the advantages of high survival rate and short growth cycle, especially suitable for home planting. This article will systematically explain the complete technical points from stem processing to survival, helping you easily cultivate high-quality Dendrobium officinale.
One, Key Points for Stem Selection and Processing
1.1 Criteria for Selecting Parent Plants
preferably select 2-3-year-old healthy parent plants with stems that are gray-green and have a diameter of ≥0.5cm. The best time to collect branches is after the dew has dried in the early morning, when the water content in the branches is moderate.
1.2 Techniques for Processing Stems
Use alcohol-disinfected pruning shears to cut 8-12cm stem sections, retaining 2-3 full bud points per section. The cut should be at a 45° angle to increase the contact area for root formation. Keep 1-2 leaves at the top and remove the rest to reduce nutrient consumption.
Two, Substrate Ratio and Disinfection
2.1 Suggested Substrate Formula
It is recommended to use a mixed substrate of pine bark: sphagnum moss: perlite in a ratio of 5:3:2, with a pH value controlled between 5.5-6.5. The bark needs to be crushed to 0.5-1cm particles and soaked in clean water for 48 hours to remove tannic acid before use.
2.2 Disinfection Treatment Methods
The substrate must be sterilized with high-temperature steam or soaked in a 0.1% potassium permanganate solution to effectively prevent black rot. The water content of the treated substrate should be maintained at 60%-65%, which is the state where it holds together when squeezed and falls apart when released.
Three, Standard for Cutting Operations
3.1 Key Points for Oblique Cutting Method
Bury 2/3 of the stem into the substrate, maintaining a 30-45° angle to facilitate the division of the basal meristem cells. The spacing between adjacent stems should be ≥5cm to avoid leaf overlap affecting ventilation.
3.2 Technique for Inducing Bud Formation by Flat Placement
For stems with aerial roots, they can be placed flat on the surface of the substrate and secured with U-shaped wire. This method can induce multiple latent buds to germinate simultaneously but requires spraying 3-4 times a day to maintain humidity.
Four, Post-Planting Care Management
4.1 Environmental Control Parameters
Keep the temperature at 25-28°C, air humidity at 70%-80%, and shading rate at 60%-70%. It is recommended to use a smart temperature and humidity meter to monitor, and配合 a timed misting system to maintain a stable environment.
4.2 Root Promotion Measures
After 20 days of cutting, spray a 0.01% indolebutyric acid solution every 10 days. When the new roots reach 3-5cm, gradually increase the light intensity and transition to normal care.
By scientifically controlling stem selection, substrate ratio, and care conditions, the survival rate of Dendrobium officinale cutting can reach over 85%. It is recommended to perform the operation in spring and autumn, avoiding the plum rain season and high temperatures. After successful rooting, apply a diluted 2000 times orchid special fertilizer every month to promote rapid formation of the plant.