Orchid Propagation Methods
Plant knowledge series, sharing with you the relevant experience of orchids, a member of the Orchidaceae family. Let's learn about the propagation methods of orchids.
Commonly used orchid propagation methods include division, seeding, and tissue culture. Division is the main method, which can be carried out in both spring and autumn. Generally, orchids are divided every 2 to 3 years.
Each clump after division should retain at least 5 pseudobulbs connected together, and these pseudobulbs should have at least 3 robust leaves. Before dividing, reduce watering to make the potting soil relatively dry. When removing the plant from the pot, remove the old soil from the roots, wash with clean water, and let it dry for 2 to 3 hours. After the roots become slightly white and wilted, cut between the pseudobulbs with a sharp knife and apply wood ash or sulfur powder to the cut surfaces to prevent decay.
When planting orchids, it is suitable to use sandy loam rich in humus. Terra cotta pots are preferred as they are beneficial for plant growth. The drainage holes at the bottom of the pot should be larger than usual, with 3 to 4 bottom holes being ideal. The size and depth of the pot should be determined according to the size of the plant.
When potting, first cover the bottom holes with broken pottery pieces, then place coarse gravel, which should occupy about 1/5 to 1/4 of the pot depth, followed by coarse soil and a small amount of fine soil, making the center of the pot rise before planting. Spread the roots during planting, and the plant should be slightly tilted. As the soil is filled, spread the roots and shake the pot several times, while pressing down with your fingers.
The planting depth should be just enough to cover the pseudobulbs with soil. After planting, the surface of the pot should be slightly arched, with a 2 cm edge left around the pot. Finally, spray water 2 to 3 times with a fine mister and place in a shaded area for 10 to 15 days. When dividing epiphytic orchids, first trim the roots properly, make an appropriate cut, and then wrap the roots with materials such as peat moss, fern roots, and decaying leaves, and plant them in a pot with holes. Then water and maintain a certain humidity.
Site selection: The area should be open, well-ventilated, and close to water, with moist air and no coal smoke pollution. On the southwest side of the site, you can plant evergreen broad-leaved trees like Cymbidiums, with a canopy density of about 0.7, which can reduce the afternoon sunlight and adjust humidity and temperature.
The above sharing is a detailed introduction of orchid propagation methods for netizens to refer to and learn from.