Methods For Growing Reed Stem Orchids?

This episode focuses on propagating Epidendrum, a type of reed stem orchid, using full water culture, bark, and garden soil methods. Reed-Stem Epidendrums spread slowly by underground rhizomes and can be propagated through division, tip cuttings, and keikies (baby orchids). To grow these orchids, follow these guidelines and adapt them to your specific conditions.

Propagation is simple; cuttings are not needed as epidendrum orchids easily form baby clones of the main plant. To propagate through stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut a section that is at least 4 inches long. Use a sharp, sterile tool to prevent damage to the plant and remove the leaves from the bottom half.

There are three methods for propagating epidendrum orchids: seed propagation, air-layering, and cutting. Seed propagation is not the most efficient method and takes years to get. Rooting hormone can be used with either the air-layering or cutting method, and the roots should be easy to draw out of the stem.

To propagate epidendrums, mix fine and medium grade fir bark in almost equal volumes and add 15 to 20 percent coarse prelite. Under our conditions and with our chosen method, new plants can be created by rooting stem cuttings and through division. Overall, growing Epidendrum orchids is a simple and rewarding experience for beginners.

Do orchids regrow from the same stem?

Phalaenopsis, a moth orchid, can re-bloom from its old spike with some extra care. When the last flower fades, the spike can be left on, but the stem becomes ungainly and the flowers become smaller. Some believe cutting off the stem at the base of the leaves can help it bloom again in several months. Another option is leaving two nodes on the stem, which will initiate and produce flowers within eight to 12 weeks.

Younger or weaker plants may not rebloom, and some Phalaenopsis are genetically incapable of reblooming from the old spike. To prevent virus spread, use a sterile tool when cutting an orchid plant, such as a straight-edged razor blade. Orchid DealWire offers exclusive savings and special promotions for orchid vendors.

How to propagate reed orchids?

Reed-Stem Epidendrums are slow-growing orchids that can be propagated through division from tip cuttings and baby orchids. They require bright light with no direct sun during the day to avoid leggy growth and bronzed foliage. They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, with a minimum night temperature of 55-60°F (12-15°C) and a daytime temperature of 60-90°F (15-32°C). Proper light and temperature management are crucial for their growth and health.

What to do if you break an orchid stem?

The post addresses the issue of an orchid’s stem snapping, suggesting that a simple solution is to gently secure the broken stem back together with tape. This should be done without being too tight, allowing for flexibility. The break should be clean and free from jagged edges to prevent infection. Cinnamon, with its natural anti-fungal properties, can also help protect the wound. The orchid should be placed in a stable environment with consistent temperature and humidity, and not moved around too much.

It may take time for the orchid to heal, and if it doesn’t, it may need to be propagated. It’s important to be patient and gentle in your care, as orchids can be sensitive, so be patient and gentle in your care. While it’s not guaranteed that the stem will fully recover, with proper care and luck, it might bounce back.

Can you propagate orchids from stem?

Phaenopsis can be propagated vegetatively by cutting the flowering stem above a stem internode, covering the dormant growth ‘eye’ with a triangular sheath. After the last flower has fallen, move the plant to a dimmer area, and new plants will start from the dormant ‘eyes.’ After the new plants initiate, the mother and ‘keikis’ (babies) can be moved back to higher light. When the keikis have 2-3 roots, remove them by slicing between the stem and the keiki or cutting the stem above and below the keiki’s attachment point. The new plant can be potted up and grown on. If more flowers are desired, cut the stem as above but do not move the plant.

In the second method, the mother plant is topped, and as a monopodial plant, Phals continue to grow vertically. As they discard their lower leaves, new roots are produced above the leafless stem. The stem can be cut below the new roots, and the top part, with leaves and roots, can be repotted after proper care. The remaining stub can be left as is for a few days/weeks, and new little plants will grow out of the old stub. These keikis can be repotted in the same manner as the first method, and they will grow on and eventually bloom.

Can I grow an orchid on a branch?

To attach an orchid to a tree, spread its roots on the bark of the tree trunk or branch, leaving the old roots functional. Secure the roots tightly to the rough bark, spreading them as needed. Attach the orchid to the tree bark using a strong non-metal material like jute, burlap, or plant-based twine, which will biodegrade and fall off the tree after attachment. If the plant is heavy, use zip ties. Avoid using metal wire as it can kill the tree as it grows.

Anchor the orchid close to the strongest point on the plant, where the stem and roots meet, ensuring the new root tips are touching the bark. Orient the plant so the roots face downwards and the leaves face upwards, avoiding pressing the leaves against the bark to improve airflow and reduce rot. Once the orchid is attached, tap it a few times to ensure it is secure.

Can you grow crucifix orchids from cuttings?

The ‘Keiki’, a well-rooted stem cutting from a spent inflorescence stalk, is a plant that produces a root after several months. Once the root has developed, it is pruned off using scissors, cutting closely to the joining that connects the mother to the Keiki. Place the bottom third of the cutting into a 7cm transparent pot with Orchid Bark, water it thoroughly, and provide a bright indirect setting with a humidity tray.

Epidendrums naturally flower in winter or spring, with large shafts baring from the stems. Most flowers are arranged in globular corymbs or panicles. To entice the growth of ‘Keiki’s,’ cut the shaft into 20cm intervals with a thick layer of sphagnum moss wrapped around its middle. The best way to tempt any Orchid into flowering is by reducing the temperature and waters and keeping it pot bound. The nickname ‘Crucifix Orchid’ originates from the similarity between its labellum and a small cross.

Can you root orchid cuttings in water?

Water culture orchids, also known as hydroponic orchids, are a unique way to grow houseplants with exotic flowers and characterful roots. These plants can be cultivated by novice growers with only an appropriate container, water, sterile tools, and patience. Despite the challenges of blooming and caring for aerial orchid roots, proper care can improve the health of ailing plants. Follow an expert tutorial to experiment with water culture orchids and elevate your houseplant collection.

What is the best method of propagation for orchids?

Orchid propagation involves removing the plant from its pot, shaking it to remove most of the mix from the root system, and cutting the rhizome linking the pseudobulbs. Large plants can make multiple divisions, provided at least three green bulbs are left on each division to give them a good chance to recover and flower again next season. Most orchids have a sympodial growth habit, but paphiopedilums and phragmipediums should be divided only if they fall apart during re-potting. The best time to divide any orchid is when new growths and roots begin to appear.

Back cutting is another method for orchids with non-clustered pseudobulbs and distinct rhizomes, such as cattleyas. It is best to leave at least three growths on either side of the cut, as this will force an eye on the older side to produce a new lead. After back cutting, both divisions should be left in the pot undisturbed until new growths and roots are established. With mature plants, more than one back cut can be made and all divisions left in the pot for later separation or to allow a specimen plant to develop.

How do you propagate orchid branches?

The flower stalk should be cut into sections of approximately 50–100 mm in length using a clean razor blade or scalpel. It is important to ensure that the sections are cleanly cut, with approximately 40 mm remaining below and the remainder above the node.

How do I get my orchid to grow a new stem?

To obtain a new orchid flower spike, place the plant in a lower room temperature (55-65°F) at night or in a window away from a heater. This method works best in winter when homes and windows aren’t as warm. Wait for a month for the spike to grow, which will look like a root with a knobby end called a “mitten”. Once it starts spiking, return the orchid to its normal growing location with a moderate room temperature of 65-75°F and bright, indirect light.

Support the spike with a stake and a loose tie once it reaches about 5″. If no new spikes are produced after a couple of months, try moving the orchid to a different location. Continue watering and fertilizing the orchid, but don’t move it around to avoid twisted flowers and an arching effect. The Phalaenopsis can usually grow a new flower spike or two annually.

How to grow a new orchid stem?

To obtain a new orchid flower spike, place the plant in a lower room temperature (55-65°F) at night or in a window away from a heater. This method works best in winter when homes and windows aren’t as warm. Wait for a month for the spike to grow, which will look like a root with a knobby end called a “mitten”. Once it starts spiking, return the orchid to its normal growing location with a moderate room temperature of 65-75°F and bright, indirect light.

Support the spike with a stake and a loose tie once it reaches about 5″. If no new spikes are produced after a couple of months, try moving the orchid to a different location. Continue watering and fertilizing the orchid, but don’t move it around to avoid twisted flowers and an arching effect. The Phalaenopsis can usually grow a new flower spike or two annually.