Orchids, with their exotic beauty and long-lasting blooms, are among the most beloved houseplants for gardeners and plant enthusiasts alike. While many people might think that growing orchids is challenging, propagating them from keikis is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to expand your orchid collection without purchasing new plants. Keikis, which means “baby” in Hawaiian, are small plantlets that develop on the mother orchid. With proper care, these keikis can be separated and grown into full-sized orchids. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of propagating orchids from keikis, from identifying a keiki to nurturing it into a thriving plant.
Understanding Keikis: What Are They?
Keikis are essentially clones of the mother orchid. They grow directly from the nodes of the flower spike or the base of the orchid. There are two main types of keikis:
- Basal Keikis: These grow from the base of the plant.
- Apical Keikis: These grow from the nodes on the flower spikes.
Keikis usually form when the orchid is exposed to certain environmental conditions, such as changes in temperature or light. They can also develop due to hormonal imbalances within the plant. Since keikis are genetically identical to the parent plant, they will produce the same type of flowers, making them an excellent way to propagate rare or particularly beautiful orchids.
Step 1: Identifying a Keiki
The first step in propagating orchids from keikis is to correctly identify the keiki. A keiki will typically have small leaves and roots emerging from the mother plant’s stem or spike. It’s important to wait until the keiki has developed at least two or three leaves and roots that are several inches long before attempting to separate it. The longer you wait, the better the chances of the keiki surviving on its own.
Step 2: Preparing to Separate the Keiki
Once you’ve identified a mature keiki, it’s time to prepare for the separation process. You’ll need the following materials:
- A pair of sterilized scissors or pruning shears
- A small pot or orchid container
- Fresh orchid potting mix
- Rooting hormone (optional)
Sterilizing your tools is crucial to prevent the spread of diseases. You can do this by wiping the scissors with rubbing alcohol or heating them briefly in a flame.
Step 3: Separating the Keiki
To separate the keiki from the mother plant, carefully cut the stem about an inch below the keiki’s roots. Be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate roots. If the keiki is attached to a flower spike, cut the spike an inch above and below the keiki. If you’re concerned about the keiki’s ability to root, you can dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to encourage faster root development.
Step 4: Potting the Keiki
After separation, it’s time to plant the keiki in its new pot. Choose a small pot that allows enough room for the roots to spread out but isn’t too large, as orchids prefer a snug fit. Fill the pot with orchid potting mix, which typically consists of materials like bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss. These materials provide excellent drainage, which is essential for orchid roots.
Place the keiki in the pot, ensuring that the roots are spread out and covered with the potting mix. Gently press the mix around the base of the plant to secure it in place. Avoid burying the keiki too deeply, as the base of the plant should be level with the top of the potting mix.
Step 5: Caring for the Newly Potted Keiki
Once your keiki is potted, proper care is essential to help it thrive. Here are some tips for nurturing your new orchid:
- Watering: Water the keiki sparingly at first, as its roots are still delicate. Use room-temperature water and avoid getting water on the leaves or the base of the plant to prevent rot. Water the orchid only when the potting mix feels dry to the touch.
- Humidity: Orchids thrive in humid environments. If your home is dry, consider using a humidity tray or placing the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles to increase the humidity around the plant. However, make sure the pot itself is not sitting directly in the water.
- Light: Place the keiki in a location where it receives bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s best to keep the plant in a spot where it gets filtered light.
- Temperature: Orchids generally prefer temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C) during the day, with slightly cooler temperatures at night. Avoid placing the orchid near drafts, heaters, or air conditioning vents.
- Feeding: After the keiki has settled into its new pot and begins to show signs of growth, you can start feeding it with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Use the fertilizer at half strength every two weeks during the growing season and reduce feeding during the winter months.
Step 6: Monitoring Growth and Health
As your keiki starts to grow, monitor its health and development closely. Look out for signs of new leaf and root growth, which indicate that the plant is adjusting well to its new environment. Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids or spider mites, which can be common on orchids. If you notice any pests, treat them immediately with an appropriate pesticide or natural remedy.
It’s also important to watch for signs of overwatering, such as yellowing leaves or mushy roots. If you suspect overwatering, reduce the frequency of watering and allow the potting mix to dry out before the next watering.
Step 7: Repotting as the Orchid Grows
As the keiki grows and matures, it may eventually outgrow its initial pot. Orchids typically need to be repotted every one to two years, or when the potting mix starts to break down. Repotting provides fresh nutrients and allows the roots more space to grow. When repotting, follow the same steps as you did when potting the keiki, ensuring that the new pot is only slightly larger than the current one.
Final Thoughts: Growing Your Orchid Family
Propagating orchids from keikis is a fantastic way to grow your orchid collection while preserving the genetic traits of your favorite plants. With patience, care, and attention to detail, you can successfully nurture these baby orchids into mature, blooming plants that will bring beauty and joy to your home for years to come.
Motivation:
Are you ready to take your orchid-growing skills to the next level? Start propagating from keikis today and watch your orchid family flourish! 🌿