Still no roots on Phal Keiki - any thoughts?! - Orchid Board

Jennyfleur · #1 10-31-2010, 08:57 AM

Hi everyone

One of my Phals has been growing a Keiki since around March - so about 7 or 8 months. During this time I've been patiently waiting for roots and none have developed! The Mamma plant has grown another leaf in the time the wee one has been growing and she had her own root spurt about a month ago (which has prompted another leaf to start growing). However, the wee one will not co-operate and do the same!

Over the last few months I have been trying all sorts - I've increased humidity (first through misting then through trays), I have increased light levels, I have made sure of temp drops at night, and now I'm tapped out! (I admit, I haven't fiddled with the fertiliser. I've maintained the 'weakly weekly' method rotating between Orchid focus Grow, Orchid focus Bloom and just plain rainwater to flush - which is what all my Phals get)

I've attached some pictures for those who would like a look-see. As you can see, the plant is nice and healthy and the biggest leaf on the Keiki is just over 4 inches.

I have a feeling that the key is patience and she'll root when she wants to. However, it's a bleak and rainy afternoon here so I thought I'd post and see what you all thought and pick up any advice

Daethen · #2 10-31-2010, 09:22 AM

You have one VERY healthy looking plant there. I am NO expert, but I believe I read somewhere on one of these forums that if you reduce the watering it may induce roots on the keiki as it will be looking for more moisture. I am sure others will chime in that know more.

tuvoc · #3 10-31-2010, 10:14 AM

I agree, your plant looks really healthy. As you mentioned, you're just going to have to be patient. When it's ready it'll do its thing on its own.

Kim

Jennyfleur · #4 10-31-2010, 10:17 AM

Thanks, yes she does seem to like it here

Hmm, I might try the 'less water approach' if nothing else comes up. Although, I am slightly reluctant in case the Mamma plant suffers.

The main plant hasn't flowered since that spike which started forming last summer. I have seen Phals with flower spikes and keikis (some in flower themselves!) at the same time, but this one doesn't seem to want to do that at the moment (which, in itself is a shame as she has the most incredible purple flowers!)

King_of_orchid_growing:) · #5 10-31-2010, 12:17 PM

Just grow as you've been growing.

Jennyfleur · #6 10-31-2010, 01:59 PM

Thanks Phillip (aka 'King') - everyone, just keep those fingers crossed

trdyl · #7 10-31-2010, 06:17 PM

Hi Jenny! You have a heathly looking plant and keiki. The roots will come when it is ready.

Duane McDowell · #8 10-31-2010, 06:58 PM

Patience, patience, patience... You're doing fine. It'll grow roots when it's good and ready. The plant looks terrific, so no worries.

Jennyfleur · #9 11-01-2010, 04:34 AM

Thanks guys

I'm sure when they do eventually come, OB will be the first to know!

natasha · #10 11-01-2010, 05:26 AM

i never manage to get any phal keiki yet, but yours does look healthy. i guess he or she is not ready to leave the nest yet. i saw some phal keikis before at my neighbours, they have roots but much bigger than yours. but i also saw smaller keikis with roots too at a nursery! just be patient