How to propagate Phalaenopsis orchids using flower spikes
Let's talk about how to propagate Phalaenopsis orchids using flower spikes and the related knowledge of the detailed method of using flower spikes to propagate Phalaenopsis orchids. Next, I will introduce them to you.
The main method of propagating Phalaenopsis orchids is the flower spike induction method. The flower spikes of the Phalaenopsis orchid that has bloomed can grow new buds, which can be used for propagation. Below, I will introduce the method of propagating Phalaenopsis orchids using flower spikes.
1. Propagation Time
Phalaenopsis orchids usually bloom in the 2nd to 3rd year of cultivation, typically blooming from April to June. At this time, you can use the flower spikes after blooming for cutting propagation.
2. Preparing the Growing Medium
For propagation using flower spikes, you can use soil culture, water culture, or tissue culture in a sterile condition using nutrient solution. Generally, soil is used as the growing medium. The soil should be well-draining with a high content of humus. You can use decomposed leaf soil and also add pine needles, sphagnum moss, wood chips, bark, ceramic balls, or river sand.
3. Cutting the Flower Spike
Cut the flower spike that has bloomed, with the cutting point located between the two nodes of the flower spike, and remove the top flower spike.
4. Artificial Bud Induction
Artificial bud induction can improve the survival rate. First, peel off the bracts on the surface of the first to third nodes below the flower spike, which have plump buds, exposing the buds to the air. Then, evenly apply a cotton swab soaked with bud induction agent to the buds and place them in a well-ventilated semi-shaded environment.
5. Maintenance During Bud Induction
It is necessary to maintain good ventilation conditions and adjust the temperature to promote bud differentiation. The temperature above 20°C can differentiate into leaf buds, while below 20°C may differentiate into flower buds. Try to control the environmental temperature within 25 to 28°C. After the cuttings grow new buds, they need to be moved to a place with sufficient scattered light.
Usually, new leaves can grow after 15 to 20 days, and aerial roots will grow on the flower spike cuttings in about 120 days. If the cuttings continue to grow, they can be cut and planted.
6. Cutting Process
Before cutting, you can apply a small amount of root-promoting powder to the bottom cut surface of the cutting. Then, insert it into the prepared growing medium. For soil culture, press the soil around the cutting tightly and then pour an appropriate amount of water, making sure the soil is completely wet, and place it in a shaded and well-ventilated environment to slow down the seedlings.
Does this article share the detailed introduction of how to propagate Phalaenopsis orchids using flower spikes and the detailed method of using flower spikes for propagation? Did you understand it?