How to Propagate Household Dendrobium Officinale
As the king of the nine immortal herbs, Dendrobium officinale has become a new favorite for home green plants with its elegant plant shape and medicinal value. Mastering the correct propagation method can not only ensure the continuous growth of green plants but also experience the wonderful continuation of plant life.
Comparison of Four Propagation Methods of Dendrobium Officinale
Division Propagation: The Most Reliable Expansion Method
Select mother plants over 3 years old in spring and autumn, and the obvious clustering stems can be seen after pulling out the roots. Cut along the natural fork with a disinfected tool to ensure that each cluster retains 3-5 aerial roots. It is recommended to use a matrix of pine bark mixed with volcanic rock (ratio 2:1), and hang it in a well-ventilated place after cultivation, maintaining a 70% humidity environment.
High Node Propagation: A New Life Gift from Nature
Mature plants will sprout root-bearing aerial buds at the node every year. When the new buds grow 3 true leaves, cut 1 cm below the connection of the mother plant with a sterile scissor. Apply cinnamon powder to the wound to prevent bacteria and plant it in a sphagnum moss seedling box, and new roots will develop in 20 days.
Cutting Propagation: The Miracle of Branch Regeneration
Select half-woody branches and cut into 10 cm cuttings, retaining the top 2 leaves. Enlarge the water absorption area by cutting the incision at a 45-degree angle, soak it in indole butyric acid solution, and then insert it into moist vermiculite, cover it with a bag to create a mini greenhouse, and root in about 40 days at a 25℃ environment.
Three Key Elements to Improve Survival Rate
Environmental Control: Precise Management of Temperature and Humidity
Maintain a temperature difference of 25-28℃ during the day and 18-20℃ at night, combined with 70%-80% air humidity, and use a humidifier or timed spraying. Avoid direct sunlight, and the east-facing windowsill is the best choice.
Matrix Selection: Balance of Breathability and Water Retention
Recommended formula: pine bark (40%) + coconut bran (30%) + charcoal (20%) + perlite (10%). Replace the matrix every 2 years to prevent acidification and hardening, which can affect root development.
Disease Prevention: Full Sterilization Operation
Disinfect tools with 75% alcohol before and after propagation, apply healing agent to the wound in time. Isolate immediately if soft rot disease is found, and treat with 1000 times streptomycin solution.
By comparing actual data, the survival rate of division propagation is 92%, high node propagation is 88%, and cutting propagation is about 75%. As long as you master the key points of environmental regulation, ordinary families can also achieve large-scale cultivation of Dendrobium officinale. It is recommended for beginners to start with division method, and gradually try other propagation methods to experience the unique fun of different cultivation methods.