Moth orchid has a new plant growing on flower stem - Orchid Board

judy · #1 10-24-2007, 09:18 AM

I have an orchid (moth) that was given to me and was purchased in a market. It bloomed very nicely for a couple of months. When I trimed the flower stem off leaving about 3 nodules, a new plant started to grow there. I have no idea how to care for this plant. It has two leaves about an inch long and two very short roots. I am leaving it attached to the mother plant. As you can see, I know nothing about orchids but I want to learn. Any help will be appreciated on the care of this new baby.

Sandy4453 · #2 10-24-2007, 10:02 AM

You've got yourself a keiki. Congratulations. Let it remain on the mother plant until it has at least 3 healthy roots, about 2" in length. After this, gently remove it from the spike and put it in your choice of growing medium. Very young Phals. will need a little more constant moisture than a fully grown Phal. and shouldn't be allowed to dry out completely. The trick though will be to not over water as it's roots will suffer if you do.

Other than this, the only thing required is patience. It will probably take a couple of years before it's blooming size.

Enjoy!