Phalaenopsis orchid stem cutting method

Phalaenopsis is an indoor plant with great ornamental value, and is deeply loved by people for its elegant posture and colorful flowers. Many people want to grow multiple pots of Phalaenopsis orchids at home to add to the beauty of their home environment. In order to meet the needs of flower lovers, it is particularly important to master the breeding techniques of Phalaenopsis. Let’s learn a method of taking Phalaenopsis flower stem cuttings below.

1. Breeding timing

Phalaenopsis orchids usually bloom after 2 to 3 years of cultivation, and the flowering period is generally from April to June. After the flowers fade, the flower swords can be used for cutting propagation.

2. Preparation of culture medium

The substrate for propagating Phalaenopsis can be soil, water or nutrient solution. It is recommended to use well-drained soil rich in humus, such as leaf mold, and pine needles , sphagnum moss, sawdust, bark , expanded clay or river sand can be added to improve the soil structure.

3. Cutting of foil

Cut the flower stem from the Phalaenopsis orchid that has bloomed. The cutting position should be between two nodes, and remove the flower spike at the top to prepare for cuttings.

4. Germination treatment

Peel off the bracts from the 1st to 3rd nodes at the bottom of the flower spike to expose the plump buds, apply them evenly with a cotton swab dipped in germination agent, and then place them in a well-ventilated semi-shaded environment.

5. Maintenance during the germination period

Maintain good ventilation and adjust the temperature to promote the differentiation of new buds. Temperatures above 20°C are conducive to the differentiation of leaf buds, while temperatures below 20°C may lead to the differentiation of flower buds. The ambient temperature should be controlled at 25 to 28°C. After the new shoots grow out, they should be moved to a place with sufficient scattered light.

6. Management after cutting

Before cutting, apply rooting powder on the bottom of the cuttings, and then cut them into the prepared substrate. For soil cultivation, compact the soil around the cuttings and water them appropriately. After the soil is moist, place them in a cool and ventilated place to facilitate seedling growth.

In general, new leaves usually begin to grow after 15 to 20 days, and aerial roots will grow on the flower sword cuttings after about 120 days. Once the cuttings continue to grow, they can be planted.